Former senator and governor of Florida Bob Graham dies at 87

• Former Senator Bob Graham dies.
• He was widely regarded within the Democratic Party.
• Condolences are pouring in.

The death of a historic figure in American politics has been confirmed, plunging the political world into mourning.

Bob Graham, former U.S. senator and governor of Florida, gained national prominence as chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee.

He took the role after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, and he was also regarded as one of the first critics of the Iraq War.

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Former Florida Governor Bob Graham dies

Graham’s family announced his passing on Tuesday in a statement posted on X by his daughter Gwen Graham.

In the statement, the family described Graham as «a dedicated public servant» and, more importantly, a loving husband and father.

«We are deeply saddened to report the passing of a visionary leader, dedicated public servant…» the statement begins.

«…and, more importantly, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather,» concluded the statement shared by Gwen Graham.

Other politicians react to the sad news

The Florida Democratic Party also offered its condolences upon learning of the former governor’s death.

«There are no words that can fully capture what Bob Graham meant to the state of Florida,» they wrote.

«Bob set the standard for every elected official who followed — both Democrat and Republican.»

Bob Graham began his political career in the Florida state legislature before being elected governor twice, serving from 1978 to 1986.

Graham on the Iraq War

Subsequently, he was elected to represent Florida in the U.S. Senate in 1986, where he remained until 2004, according to The Associated Press.

During his years in the Senate, Graham was noted for his early opposition to the Iraq War and his focus on national security and foreign policy issues.

Graham famously said: «The quagmire in Iraq is a distraction that the Bush administration, and the Bush administration alone, has created.»

He was also known for his peculiar style, such as his «workdays,» where he performed everyday jobs to connect with voters.

Bob Graham’s impact on the Florida Democratic Party

Graham, widely respected for his ability to work with colleagues from both parties, also sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 2004.

However, his campaign was interrupted by heart surgery in January 2003, according to EFE.

The local Democratic Party highlighted his political legacy in Florida, praising him for setting a standard for elected officials in the state.

Graham’s death leaves a void in both state and national politics.

Bob Graham’s legacy

He will be remembered for his role during critical moments in the history of American politics, including his participation in the investigation of the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010.

Nancy Pelosi expressed her sorrow over Graham’s loss, highlighting his «distinguished public service and his brave opposition to the Iraq War.»

«He brought his love for his family and for his state of Florida to the Senate, where he served with immense dignity and courage,» she said in a statement on Tuesday.

Bob Graham’s legacy will endure as an example of leadership and service to the community, leaving an indelible mark on the political history of the entire country, according to The Associated Press.