Kitty Dukakis, Wife of Former Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis, Passes Away at 88

Kitty Dukakis, the wife of former Massachusetts Governor and 1988 Democratic presidential nominee Michael Dukakis, has passed away at the age of 88. The family confirmed the news, sharing that she died Friday night surrounded by loved ones at her home in Brookline, Massachusetts.

John Dukakis, one of her three children, described his mother as someone who "lived a full life fighting to make the world a better place and sharing her vulnerabilities to help others face theirs." He added, "She was loving, feisty, and fun, with a keen sensitivity to people from all walks of life. She and our dad, Michael Dukakis, shared an enviable partnership for over 60 years and loved each other deeply."

The cause of her death was reported to be complications from dementia, according to both The Washington Post and The New York Times. Kitty Dukakis was a prominent figure in Massachusetts politics, serving as the state's first lady during her husband’s three nonconsecutive terms as governor. Her role became even more public during Michael Dukakis’s unsuccessful 1988 presidential bid against then-Vice President George H.W. Bush.

Her husband’s campaign faced a particularly infamous moment during the first presidential debate. Moderator Bernard Shaw asked Michael Dukakis, "If Kitty Dukakis was raped and murdered, would you favor an irrevocable death penalty for the killer?" His unemotional response—"No, I don't, Bernard"—was widely criticized. Kitty later revealed that her husband admitted, "I really blew it," while she herself called the question "outrageous."

Beyond the campaign trail, Kitty Dukakis left her own mark as an advocate and author. In her 60s, she became a vocal supporter of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) as a treatment for depression, a decision backed by her husband. She also authored books discussing her struggles with addiction to diet pills and alcohol, showcasing her courage in addressing personal battles publicly to help others.

Born December 26, 1936, Kitty Dukakis came from a Jewish family. Her father, Ellis Dickson, was a first violinist with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, while her mother, Jane (Goldberg) Dickson, was a more complex figure in her life, as detailed in her first book, "Now You Know."

Kitty was deeply involved in humanitarian efforts, championing causes such as homelessness, refugee support, and AIDS awareness. She was even appointed by two U.S. presidents—Jimmy Carter and George H.W. Bush—to commissions that contributed to the founding of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. It’s rare to see rivals turn collaborators, but perhaps that’s a testament to the respect she commanded.

Kitty Dukakis’s legacy is one of resilience, advocacy, and a fierce dedication to making the world a better place. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the countless lives she touched.