Rep. Andy Barr (R-Ky.), a candidate for U.S. Senate, on Thursday announced the death of his longtime staffer and campaign manager Tatum Dale.
Dale has worked with the congressman for more than a decade, serving as his top aide in Kentucky and his deputy chief of staff before transitioning into the role of campaign manager when Barr launched his bid to replace retiring Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) in 2026.
“When I first ran to serve the Sixth District, Tatum Dale was one of the first people who volunteered to help. Born and raised in Murray, Tatum came to the University of Kentucky for college, and I’m forever grateful that she stayed to serve alongside me,” Barr said in a statement released by his office.
“For over 15 years, Tatum was the heart and soul of my team,” he added, noting she “held almost every job in my office” over that period.
Barr touted the work Dale did for his district, including addressing concerns of veterans, seniors and local families while fighting to deliver funds to dozens of community projects in Kentucky.
“Tatum loved her family, her faith, and her Commonwealth. She made me a better Congressman, our staff better public servants, and we will all miss her forever. From Murray to Lexington and everywhere in the Commonwealth that 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,” Barr said.
Dale died on Dec. 24, according to the Courier-Journal, which cited a spokesperson for the campaign.
The cause of death was not immediately clear.
The Hill reached out to the campaign for comment.
