Reubin Askew Wins Praise From Both Sides of the Aisle

Floridas leaders are weighing in on the passing of former Gov. Reubin Askew.

Reubin Askew was a giant of Florida history, whose unparalleled accomplishments for the people of Florida set the example all Floridians elected to public office strive to meet, said Allison Tant, the chairwoman of the Florida Democratic Party, on Thursday. We will miss his wisdom, his friendship, and his leadership in difficult times.

Reubin Askew leaves behind a legacy as strong as the principles he fought for. His commitment to honesty in government, to civil rights, and to the middle class restored peoples faith that government could work for them, Tant added. Reubin Askew will live on in the memories of those who knew him and in the lives of the millions of Floridians whose lives he touched. Let us all continue to serve Florida in that spirit."

On the other side of the aisle, Florida House Speaker Will Weatherford, R-Wesley Chapel, also praised Askew.

In Gov. Askew, Florida has lost a leader who embodied what it means to be a true public servant, Weatherford said. Gov. Askew leaves behind a legacy of public service that has set the standard for all individuals in elected office today.

His tenure includes opening up government and creating new reporting standards for elected officials, which still serve Florida well today, Weatherford added. Im grateful to have had the opportunity to get to know this great man. I offer my prayers to his family and his wife Donna Lou.