Key Takeaways
- Kevin Drum (1958-2025) was a respected political blogger known for data-driven analysis at Mother Jones and independent platforms.
- His measured approach and statistical rigor made him a clarifying voice in political commentary, notably for his work on lead-crime theory.
- Despite battling multiple myeloma since 2014, Drum remained committed to writing until days before his March 2025 demise.
Kevin Drum (October 19, 1958 – March 7, 2025) was a respected American journalist and blogger who impacted political commentary and data-driven analysis.
Best known for his work at Mother Jones, Washington Monthly, and his independent blogs Calpundit and Jabberwocking, Drum was a pioneering voice in the early days of political blogging.
His demise was announced by his wife, Marian, in a heartfelt message on his website.
“With a heavy heart, I have to tell you that after a long battle with cancer, my husband Kevin Drum passed away on Friday, March 7, 2025. No public memorial services are planned. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity or political cause of your choice.”
Via jabberwocking.com
A Facebook page, “In Memory of Kevin Drum,” has been created for those who wish to share their memories and tributes.
A Career Defined By Insight And Integrity
Drum first gained recognition through Calpundit (2003–2004), an independent blog that quickly became a go-to source for political analysis.
His success led to an invitation from Washington Monthly to launch Political Animal (2004–2008), where he continued to develop his reputation for detailed, fact-based reporting.
In 2008, he joined Mother Jones, remaining for over a decade before returning to independent blogging with Jabberwocking.
Unlike many in the fast-paced world of online commentary, Drum was known for his measured approach and reliance on data.
His writing was rich with charts, statistics, and deep dives into complex policy issues, making him a rare voice of clarity in a landscape often driven by hyperbole.
A Mind For Data, A Passion For Truth
One of Drum’s most influential contributions was his work on the theory that lead contamination played a major role in the rise and fall of crime rates in the late 20th century.
His 2013 piece for Mother Jones made a compelling argument. Though the theory remained debated, his ability to present thorough, well-researched arguments earned widespread respect.
In an interview with Norman Geras, Drum cited his intellectual heroes as Franklin D. Roosevelt, Isaac Newton, John Maynard Keynes, Edward R. Murrow, and Charles Darwin.
His favorite political figure was Benjamin Franklin, a fitting choice for a journalist who valued both curiosity and pragmatism.
A Personal Battle With Cancer
Drum was open about his long battle with multiple myeloma, first revealing his diagnosis in 2014.
Over the years, he provided updates on his health, maintaining his dedication to writing despite the challenges.
In early 2025, he shared that his condition had worsened, with pneumonia and a colon infection further weakening his immune system.
Even in his final days, he remained committed to his work. His last blog post was published just three days before his passing.
