The conservative media world was shocked this Friday when one of the movement's most beloved writers and pundits, Bre Payton, died suddenly at the age of 26. Payton was a staff writer for The Federalist and a frequent contributor on Fox News. Her friend, Morgan Murtaugh, shared an urgent message Friday morning explaining that she had found Payton unconscious and rushed her to the hospital, where she remained in a coma. It seemed Payton had contracted the swine flu and meningitis. Just a few hours later, Murtaugh shared the devastating news.
Thank you everyone for your prayers. It is with a heavy heart that I type this. Unfortunately Bre has passed. Please send prayers to her family. Rest in paradise you beautiful soul. https://t.co/pMFCZNaqKl
— Morgan Murtaugh (@morganmurtaugh) December 28, 2018
Her friends, including those in the media industry, remember her as a sweet soul and a fearless voice for the conservative movement.
Ben and I are absolutely gutted and horrified by this news. Our prayers for @Bre_payton and her family. We are less without her - in every possible way. A wonderful, fearless, vibrant, intelligent young woman. Sending prayers to all of her family and friends during this darkness. https://t.co/K5nfRiB7gy
— Meghan McCain (@MeghanMcCain) December 28, 2018
Bre Payton passed away from a sudden illness. Bre is one of the kindest, most thoughtful souls I've ever encountered. She made a positive impact on every person she met, her smile, her love of LIFE, God, & passion for news was contagious. SHE WILL be missed! Pray for her family. pic.twitter.com/fPjifm65QS
— Stephanie Hamill (@STEPHMHAMILL) December 28, 2018
I cannot believe this. @Bre_payton was such a beautiful light, smart and funny and kind and talented. Please pray for her broken hearted loved ones, who are undoubtedly reeling. She was far too young. ?????? https://t.co/gLJbqIP8g9
— Shannon Bream (@ShannonBream) December 28, 2018
Bre was fantastic at mixing sass with witty and knowledgable arguments. Here's just one example.
To read more about Bre's impact and how she "brightened the lives of everyone around her," please read The Federalist's beautiful tribute.We join others in sending thoughts and prayers to Bre's family. A Scholarship Fund has been created in her name.