Barr announces passing of longtime aide Tatum Dale after 15 years

Rep. Andy Barr, R-Ky., announced the death of his longtime aide and campaign manager on Christmas Day, a death that “shocked” those who knew her over the holiday.

The congressman and Senate candidate announced the death of her deputy chief of staff and campaign manager Tatum Dale on Thursday, highlighting the contributions she made not only to her current position, but also to her mission to serve in statewide office.

“For more than 15 years, Tatum has been the heart and soul of my team,” Barr posted on

Barr praised Dale’s 15 years of service and dedication to Kentuckians, as political allies and rivals honored his legacy and expressed their condolences. (Andy Barr via X)

“She loved helping people and was a servant of others, just as Christ envisioned us all to be. Perhaps that is why her birth into heaven is a birthday shared with our Lord and Savior,” Barr continued. “Even though our hearts are broken, our team finds peace and hope knowing that Tatum is now home with Christ, resting comfortably in the arms of his Savior.”

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Barr’s race to succeed Sen. Mitch McConnell, who announced his retirement in February, has been a battle between GOP candidates early in the race.

Despite the competition, former Kentucky Attorney General and gubernatorial candidate Daniel Cameron put aside their differences to weigh in on Dale’s death.

“Tatum Dale was a friend,” Cameron posted on social media. “We will really miss her.”

Congressman Andy Barr announced the death of his longtime aide and campaign manager, Tatum Dale, drawing tributes from his GOP colleagues. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

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“Makenze and I will be praying for his family and the entire Barr team,” Cameron added.

Cameron’s message was joined by several others who posted on social media remembering the staffer.

GOP strategist and communications director for Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte said he was shocked by the news and that “Tatum was one of those hardworking people who seemed to be at every GOP event.”

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Daniel Cameron, former Kentucky attorney general and U.S. Senate candidate, put aside their differences to weigh in on the death of the longtime Barr staffer. (Reuters)

Dale originally joined Barr’s Washington, DC office in 2013 as a planner. She then returned to Kentucky, where she served as a district representative, director of field operations, assistant district director, district director and deputy chief of staff.

She was born in Murray. Kentucky and attended the University of Kentucky, according to Barr.

The cause of death is unclear at this time.

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“She made me a better member of Congress, our staff better public servants, and we will forever miss her,” Barr said. “From Murray to Lexington and throughout the Commonwealth she touched, we hope you will all join us in praying for Tatum’s family and friends and be forever inspired by her memory to serve others.”

Fox News Digital has reached out to Barr’s office for comment.

Preston Mizell is a writer for Fox News. Story tips can be sent to Preston.Mizell@fox.com and on X @MizellPreston