Kentucky state Sen. Johnnie Turner, known for his staunch support for the coal industry and other causes in his Appalachian district, has died after being injured at home last month when he plunged into an empty swimming pool while aboard a lawn mower. He was 76.
Turner, a Harlan Republican, was known for his folksy manner that endeared him to constituents and colleagues alike. Turner died Tuesday evening after his "hard-fought battle" with injuries sustained in the accident, Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers said in a statement Wednesday.
Weird his opponent dropped out from the race while he was still recovering, wonder if another dead guy is going to get elected. I mean seriously, guy is in the hospital with severe injuries and he was like, I can't beat that.
With his death coming so close to the election, Turner's name will appear on the general election ballot, the secretary of state's office said. His lone November challenger, an independent candidate, recently withdrew from the race. Write-in candidates have until Friday to file for the seat, but otherwise a special election will be needed to fill the seat, the secretary of state's office said.
Kentucky's GOP-dominated legislature will begin its 2025 session in January. Until then, lawmakers are meeting in interim committees to study a range of issues in preparation for next year's 30-day session.
Turner, a Harlan Republican, was known for his folksy manner that endeared him to constituents and colleagues alike. Turner died Tuesday evening after his "hard-fought battle" with injuries sustained in the accident, Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers said in a statement Wednesday.
Kentucky state Sen. Johnnie Turner dies after plunging into empty swimming pool on lawn mower
Kentucky state Sen. Johnnie Turner was known for his staunch support for the coal industry and other causes in his Appalachian district.
www.cbsnews.com
Weird his opponent dropped out from the race while he was still recovering, wonder if another dead guy is going to get elected. I mean seriously, guy is in the hospital with severe injuries and he was like, I can't beat that.
With his death coming so close to the election, Turner's name will appear on the general election ballot, the secretary of state's office said. His lone November challenger, an independent candidate, recently withdrew from the race. Write-in candidates have until Friday to file for the seat, but otherwise a special election will be needed to fill the seat, the secretary of state's office said.
Kentucky's GOP-dominated legislature will begin its 2025 session in January. Until then, lawmakers are meeting in interim committees to study a range of issues in preparation for next year's 30-day session.