Bob Graham, the former Florida governor and U.S. senator, passed away at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy of bipartisan leadership that is sorely missed in today’s hyper-partisan political climate.
Graham was known for his down-to-earth approach to politics, connecting with people on a personal level during his nearly five decades in public service. He earned support from both Republicans and Democrats with his folksy charm, despite being a millionaire Harvard-educated lawyer.
One of Graham’s most notable traditions was his workdays, where he would try a new job for a day to connect with everyday folks. His final workday involved wrapping Christmas presents for a charity in the Florida Keys, showcasing his commitment to serving others.
After retiring from politics, Graham dedicated himself to promoting civic engagement and public service. He established the Bob Graham Center for Public Service at the University of Florida, emphasizing the importance of citizen involvement in shaping policies at all levels of government.
President Joe Biden praised Graham as a person of principle, highlighting his dedication to learning from and serving others. Graham’s influence extended beyond party lines, with both Democrats and Republicans remembering him fondly for his integrity and civility.
Graham’s daughter, former U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham, followed in her father’s footsteps by running for governor in 2018. Despite narrowly losing the Democratic primary, she continued his legacy of putting people over politics.
Bob Graham’s legacy as a leader who genuinely cared for the people he represented will continue to inspire future generations of public servants.