Former Garden State Gov. Jim Florio died Sunday evening at 85.
Florio led New Jersey from 1990 to 1994 during his term as governor and made a name for himself by championing legislation aimed at reforming public school funding, banning “assault weapons,” and bolstering protections for the environment.
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“Governor Florio passed away last night comforted by family & friends. Our partnership was a constant reminder to me that ppl can disagree on fundamental tenets of gov’t & politics, but still be civil & still be friends. I will miss him,” Florio’s law partner Douglas Steinhardt tweeted.
Florio’s tenure in office was cut short after Republican Christine Todd Whitman bested him in the 1993 gubernatorial election. He had reneged on a campaign pledge not to hike state taxes, pushing through a $2.8 billion tax hike to fund low-income school districts and balance the state budget, per the New Jersey Globe. Whitman has since left the GOP and joined the Forward Party.
The former governor had long been involved in Garden State politics, having first won election to the New Jersey State Assembly in 1969. From there, he moved up to Congress in 1972, where he served until he became governor in 1990. Post governorship, Florio mounted a bid for the Senate, but he ultimately lost a primary in 2000. He also taught at Rutgers University.
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Gov. Phil Murphy directed the state flags at half-staff Monday to honor his predecessor.
“He was a leader who cared more about the future of New Jersey than his own political fortunes. And he was also a friend whose kind counsel was invaluable to me and countless others across our state,” Murphy proclaimed.
Florio is survived by his children, grandchildren, and wife, Lucinda.
