Tom Donohue, longtime CEO of U.S. Chamber of Commerce, dies at 86

Tom Donohue, longtime CEO of U.S. Chamber of Commerce, has died, the powerful lobbying group announced on Monday. 

Donohue, who led the chamber for over 20 years, was 86.

"The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the American business community, and our nation mourn the passing of Thomas J. Donohue," the chamber's statement read. "Throughout his extraordinary life, Tom was many things – friend, mentor, statesman, storyteller, fighter, advocate, and patriot. Above all else, he was a dedicated family man, and our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones."

The chamber, known as the largest lobbying group in the United States, was originally founded in 1912.

"As a business leader, Tom was a towering figure, and across his decades-long career, his Irish toughness, combined with his genuine compassion, made him a unique and impactful voice in Washington and around the world. He gave business a seat at the table and a voice in the debate in a way it never had before," the chamber said.