Florida lawmakers are remembering their former fellow colleague, John Patrick Julien. The former South Florida legislator lost his battle with cancer Friday. Ocala Republican Representative Dennis Baxley worked with Julien when he was the ranking Democratic member on the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee, a panel Baxley chaired. Speaking at the end of a recent committee hearing, Baxley mourned the loss of his friend.
“And, it’s heartbreak for his family, and we want our prayers to be with them, and I just ask for you to observe with me a moment of silence in honor of our wonderful friend, Representative Julien,” said Baxley.
In a statement, House Democratic Leader Perry Thurston called Julien a “great friend and public servant.” Julien served just one term in the Florida House, from 2010 to 2012. The 50-year-old tried to run again, but became embroiled in a battle with Democratic Representative Barbara Watson over their newly redrawn House District. He took the matter to court to contest his loss, but the court found in Watson’s favor.
Twitter Reactions:
Rep. Jimmy Patronis (R-Panama City):
@JimmyPatronis: Prayers for the family of former Representative John Patrick Julien on his passing #classact #sayfie @MyFLHouse
— Jimmy Patronis (@JimmyPatronis) September 27, 2013
Rep. Dana Young (R-Tampa):
Florida lost a true.public servant with the passing of Rep. John Patrick Julien. A great leader and friend. So very sad.
— Dana Young (@DanaYoungFL) September 27, 2013
Florida House Democratic Spokesman Mark Hollis:
In memory of former State Rep. John Patrick Julien, flags in Florida will be flown at half-staff today.
— FL House Democrats (@FLHouseDems) September 28, 2013
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