Age: 70
Residence: Inverness
Time in the Legislature: 7 years
Political Affiliation: Republican
Spouse: Judy
Children: Shannon Wright, Charlie Jr.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
I wanted to work in law enforcement, because my father was Citrus County sheriff from 1928 to 1945.
What was your biggest political achievement?
Being elected sheriff, because I had to run more than once to get the job.
What was your biggest political faux pas?
The Terri Schiavo case, which was HB 35E signed into law in 2003. It authorizes the governor to issue a one-time stay to prevent the withholding of nutrition and hydration from a patient. The government had no business getting involved in that; it should have been up to the family. I initially voted against the bill, then changed my vote to support it. I should have never done that and it bothers me to this day.
Who in state government do you most admire?
Claude Pepper because he was a great leader and a great American.
Who in the world do you most admire?
I'd have to say three people and that would be Ronald Reagan, Barry Goldwater and Colin Powell. They were and are great leaders.
Who is your favorite lawmaker of the opposite party and why?
Sen. Al Lawson, because he has great vision and he's willing to listen to both sides of an issue. He also represents a mostly rural district like I do.
What do you remember as being your wackiest constituent request?
My office certainly got a lot of calls about SB 448, which is the so called "beastiality bill," making it a third degree felony for a person to have sex with an animal. The Senate passed the bill unanimously, but it was indefinitely postponed in the House.
What is your favorite place in the world?
Without a doubt, my river and my barn. I enjoy spending time at both places.
What is your least favorite household chore?
Well, I do all of them, but my least favorite is probably taking out the garbage.
Reach John Hinds at JHinds1949@aol.com or by calling 850-274-2966
