Statement by Competitive Enterprise Institute President Kent Lassman on Ed Crane’s passing

Ed Crane, libertarian activist and co-founder of the Cato Institute, passed on Wednesday, February 11. CEI President Kent Lassman remembers Crane for his profound legacy, influence, and leadership in American life.

“Ed Crane lived in the realm of ideas—the biggest and most profound ideas of a healthy free society. He leaves a legacy, anchored by his family and a strong coterie of longtime friends from around the world, that is a monument to the universal yearning for liberty. Ed shared himself liberally, offering advice, well-wishes, exhortations to do more, and sharp humor.  He set an example for sharing credit and made it integral to his leadership style. Privately, he was profoundly proud of his children and grandchildren. His philosophical and political views did not vary from the very well-known libertarian views that he carried into the public square. For more than four decades, Ed provided encouragement, advice, and support to CEI. We mourn his loss and share gratitude for all the good he brought to the world. Requiescat in Pace”