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Congressional Daily Record
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September 24, 2026
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Download official Senate Record PDFReturn to issue contextMs. CORTEZ MASTO. Madam President, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of Edward Earl Allison, who passed away in Reno, NV, on August 23, 2026. Ed's long career in government and journalism carried him from his hometown of Carson City to the halls of Congress in Washington, DC, and back to his beloved Nevada. Along the way, Ed inspired countless Nevadans to pursue public service and will be remembered as a great friend to many.
to the small mining town of Kimberly, NV, before eventually settling in Carson City. Ed, alongside his brothers George and Pat, attended Carson City High School before enrolling at the University of Nevada, Reno. At UNR, Ed pursued a degree in journalism, while also playing for the school's basketball team.
career as a journalist. While working at the Nevada Appeal as a managing editor, Ed demonstrated his willingness to go against the grain. His focus on ensuring that all viewpoints were fairly represented at the paper often put him at odds with his publisher. This dispute eventually escalated to the point where Ed resigned from the paper after they refused to publish his endorsement of Republican gubernatorial candidate and fellow Carson native Paul Laxalt. It was also this moment that launched Ed's foray into State and national politics.
Following a stint as Gov. Paul Laxalt's press secretary, Ed continued to pursue his interest in politics, forming
a consulting firm specializing in political campaigns. During this period, Ed demonstrated his political talent, which eventually led to his appointment as Senator Paul Laxalt's chief of staff in 1981. Upon his arrival in Washington, DC, Ed took on an exceptionally challenging role, serving as both the Senator's chief of staff and his press secretary. Yet, despite it all, Ed carried out his role with enormous skill, tenacity, and dedication.
During his time on Capitol Hill, Ed never forgot where he came from. He strongly prioritized hiring Nevadans, for both full-time positions and internships. Additionally, Senator Laxalt's close relationship with President Ronald Reagan gave Ed the opportunity to ensure that Nevadans were also hired in the administration. Ed was dedicated to ensuring that Nevadans have a seat at the table when big decisions are being made, and his efforts became a springboard for many of Nevada's future leaders in government and business.
respected figure in Washington with friends on both sides of the aisle. Ed received a number of Presidential appointments. In 1985, President Reagan appointed him to the Advisory Committee for Trade Negotiations, gathering private sector input on trade policy. In 1988, he was appointed to the Pennsylvania Avenue Development Corporation, where he was responsible for beautifying the avenue's stretch between the U.S. Capitol and the White House.
returned to Reno. Back in Nevada, he put his extensive political talent to work, lobbying the State legislature on behalf of clients such as UNR, UNLV, the Harry Reid Environmental Center, and many more. He also continued his support for UNR, regularly attending games at Mackay Stadium and speaking at journalism classes, where he inspired countless students to pursue national media. In recognition of his contributions to the university, he was made a lifetime member of the UNR Foundation Board of Trustees, and he received a Professional Achievement Award from the school in 2012.
his side. He is survived by his daughter Shelly, son Branan, four grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Ed was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 42 years JoAnn, who passed away in March of 2006. In later years, he found joy and companionship with my mother Joanna Cortez.
Nevada first and holding conversations with everyone, no matter their political party or background. I know he will be missed by his family, loved ones, and everyone who has had the honor of knowing him.