Longtime Democratic Strategist Kam Kuwata Found Dead
LOS ANGELES (CBS/AP) — Longtime Democratic strategist Kam Kuwata, a mainstay of the California political scene for decades, was found dead Monday in his Venice condominium. He was 57.
"I am greatly saddened by the passing of Kam Kuwata," said Eric Bauman, Los Angeles County Democratic Party chairman. "Today, we lost a dear friend and a top Democratic political mind whose influential behind-the-scenes work had touched California and American politics alike.
Kuwata's work extends nearly 30 years in campaign strategic planning, communications and messaging. He served in many key roles for major and local Democratic campaigns including: U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein, Daniel Akaka and Alan Cranston; along with Gray Davis, Leo McCarthy, Jim Hahn and Robert Matsui.
"Kam was the kind of person I thought would be around forever, a constant presence on the political scene," said County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky Yaroslavsky who was shocked "beyond belief" to hear of Kuwata's passing.
"There was a certain honesty about Kam that you didn't find in too many people. I will never forget the twinkle in his eye when he was trying to persuade someone to support his candidate or his point of view. He could fight with the best and hold his own, but it never prevented him from maintaining a relationship with his adversary once the fight was over," he said.
Governor Jerry Brown also weighed in, praising Kuwata's intellect, "His analytical skills, coupled with his gentle approach to a tough business, earned him respect and friendship of his allies and opponents alike."
Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa was also shocked, "Kam gave a lifetime to politics and public service," the mayor said. "My prayers are with his family and large network of colleagues and friends during this difficult time."
Authorities say police went to Kuwata's home after friends became concerned about his welfare. There was no immediate word of the cause of death, a police spokesman said, but authorities did not consider the death suspicious.
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