Former Gov. Askew Dies At 85

March 13, 2014

Former Gov. Reubin Askew, a major figure in modern Florida political history, died early Thursday at Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare. Askew was 85.

The former governor was admitted to the hospital Saturday with aspiration pneumonia, and his condition worsened when he suffered a stroke, family spokesman Ron Sachs said.

Askew, a Democrat, served as governor from 1971 to 1979, after a dozen years representing the Pensacola area in the Legislature. Askew defeated incumbent Republican Claude Kirk in 1970 and was re-elected in 1974, becoming the first governor in Florida history to be elected to successive terms.

When he first ran for governor, Askew was a relative unknown. But once in office, Askew led efforts to institute a corporate income tax, while reducing consumer taxes. He also spearheaded approval of what became known as the “Sunshine Amendment,” which opened government records and required public officials to disclose information about their financial affairs.

In a 1998 interview with Florida State University’s “Research in Review,” Askew said he wanted to restore “some sense of responsibility and competence” in the governor’s office.

“It sounds awfully corny for me to say this but my goal wasn’t (simply) to get elected governor,” Askew said during the interview. “My goal was to get elected in such a way as I could govern. There’s a big difference. … So many people who run for office negotiate away all their options in the pursuit of the office and they literally tie their hands on dealing with the problems, by commitments.”

Askew, an attorney, said the Sunshine Amendment stopped “a lot of circuitous business transactions in state and local government.”

“Having to report your income is sort of an invasion of privacy and yet, I felt, while it was extraordinary, I felt that it was needed to give some sense of reassurance to the people (about their elected officials),” he said during the 1998 interview. “Who are they working for? Are they working for themselves or for the people?”

After leaving office, Askew served as the U.S. trade representative from 1979 to 1981. He ran unsuccessfully for president in 1984. He later taught at the Askew School of Public Administration and Policy at Florida State University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in 1951.

The former governor is survived by his wife of 57 years, Donna Lou; a son, Kevin Askew; a daughter, Angela White; and several grandchildren. Details of memorial services will be forthcoming.

Comments

5 Responses to “Former Gov. Askew Dies At 85”

  1. Tim Fortner on March 13th, 2014 5:31 pm

    When I was about ten years old my Dad took me to the Coffee Cup off Cervantes for breakfast one morning. My Dad asked me, “do you know who that man is at the counter?” I responded “no.” My Dad said, “that’s the Governor of Florida.” Governor Askew was by himself reading a newspaper drinking his coffee with no entourage or security. Another time, not long after, I was attending a parade in downtown Pensacola. Governor Askew was riding in a convertible seated on the top of the back seat. I proceeded to hand him a scrap piece of paper and pen for an autograph. He kindly obliged and nearly fell out of the car when his driver took off as he leaned over to return my paper and pen. The Governor recovered with grace and a smile. Great memories of a great man. Prayers for his family.

  2. Robert S. on March 13th, 2014 4:22 pm

    Ruben Askew is an example of great leadership and one who our current politicians and other leaders should strive to emulate.
    He was a true Servant of the People.

  3. grandjoy on March 13th, 2014 2:23 pm

    Mrs Donna was my teacher..A wonderful couple. Prayers for family and friends.

  4. Tom Helms on March 13th, 2014 7:41 am

    Florida has lost a great man.
    I have lost a friend and classmate. My condolences go out to his family and other friends.

  5. 429SCJ on March 13th, 2014 6:30 am

    Rest in peace.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News