Richard A. Boucher, a long-serving State Department spokesman who shaped U.S. diplomacy with his calm and analytical demeanor, has died at the age of 73. His commitment to public service and ability to articulate complex foreign policy issues will be remembered.
Richard A. Boucher: A Respected Voice in U.S. Diplomacy Passes Away at 73
Richard A. Boucher: A Respected Voice in U.S. Diplomacy Passes Away at 73
Boucher, who served six secretaries of state, was known for his noncombative approach to explaining U.S. foreign policy.
July 1, 2025, 5:45 p.m. ET - Richard A. Boucher, who provided a steady voice for U.S. diplomacy during critical moments, including the 9/11 attacks, passed away on Friday at his Arlington, Virginia home due to spindle cell carcinoma, as reported by his son, Peter Boucher. Boucher dedicated decades of his life as a State Department spokesman, holding the position longer than anyone else, offering insights and clarifications for six U.S. secretaries of state, spanning administrations from George H.W. Bush to George W. Bush.
His characteristic style involved conveying the stances of both Republican and Democratic presidents while maintaining a noncombative approach, rarely injecting personal opinions. Boucher's experience as a foreign service officer provided him with a robust understanding of international issues, drawing the attention of fellow officials who paused to listen to his briefings.
Former Under Secretary of State R. Nicholas Burns praised Boucher’s ability to simplify intricate topics for the public, calling it a formidable challenge in the foreign service field. In 2008, he achieved the title of career ambassador, the apex rank for diplomats.
Boucher was with Secretary of State Colin Powell on September 11, 2001, in Peru when the terrorist attacks occurred. During their emergency return to the U.S., he recounted Powell’s abrupt realization of the situation’s magnitude, marking the beginning of a new chapter in U.S. foreign policy. Boucher’s legacy as a diplomat and communicator will be honored as the country reflects on the profound impact he had on American diplomacy.
His characteristic style involved conveying the stances of both Republican and Democratic presidents while maintaining a noncombative approach, rarely injecting personal opinions. Boucher's experience as a foreign service officer provided him with a robust understanding of international issues, drawing the attention of fellow officials who paused to listen to his briefings.
Former Under Secretary of State R. Nicholas Burns praised Boucher’s ability to simplify intricate topics for the public, calling it a formidable challenge in the foreign service field. In 2008, he achieved the title of career ambassador, the apex rank for diplomats.
Boucher was with Secretary of State Colin Powell on September 11, 2001, in Peru when the terrorist attacks occurred. During their emergency return to the U.S., he recounted Powell’s abrupt realization of the situation’s magnitude, marking the beginning of a new chapter in U.S. foreign policy. Boucher’s legacy as a diplomat and communicator will be honored as the country reflects on the profound impact he had on American diplomacy.
