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.
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.
U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell recalled crossing paths with Turner while back in his home state to survey damage from flooding that swamped parts of eastern Kentucky.
Kentucky state Sen. Johnnie Turner, front, gives a speech, Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022, in Frankfort, Ky. Bruce Schreiner / AP.
Turner pushed for pro-coal legislation and other measures aimed at uplifting his Appalachian district, spanning several counties in eastern Kentucky.
House Speaker David Osborne said Wednesday that Turner was an "ardent champion and passionate voice for eastern Kentucky.".
Turner, an attorney, won election to the state Senate in 2020, ousting a Democratic incumbent with the same last name. »