[In lieu of my column today, I'm leaving this post up in tribute to Phyllis, who was a friend of the Netroots. - Kenneth Quinnell]
Hillsborough County Elections Supervisor Phyllis Busansky passed away last night. More here: The Political Whore » Hillsborough Supervisor of Elections Phyllis Busansky found dead in St. Augustine
Creative Loafing’s Wayne Garcia gathered together statements from Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio, Congresswoman Kathy Castor, Congressman Gus Bilirakis, Congressman Kendrick Meek, and the Pasco County Democratic Party: The Political Whore » Reaction on the news of Phyllis Busansky’s passing.
Garcia also offers his personal reflections on the loss: The Political Whore » Remembering Phyllis Busansky
[...] She was a domineering presence, physically and mentally, smart and savvy, with top columnists’ phone numbers at the top of her speed dial and an unwavering enthusiasm that led to her say the word “fabulous” at least once every 10 minutes.
[...]
She was one of those politicians you knew only by one name: Phyllis. [...]
To her husband, Sheldon, and her kids, Alex, Edward and Rebecca, my sympathy and support.
To Phyllis, I say rest in peace. You went out on top of your game. We’ll miss you.
Following are reactions from other Florida bloggers:
LittleJoe » Sad Day for Democracy in Hillsborough County
She will be missed by many as a friend and certainly as a fierce politician who had a plan to turn around the poorly handled Office of the Supervisor of Elections.
Sticks of Fire » phyllis busansky – hillsborough loses a good one
In Hillsborough County politics, it has become quite normal to find elected leaders facing some challenges that go beyond the last (or next) election.
Phyllis Busansky wasn’t one of those.
While others are mired in all sorts of muddy messes, Phyllis has been a true champion for her constituency, always seeking the best remedies for the county, rather than those that would make her more popular (electable) or fill her pocket.
Pushing Rope » Phyllis Busansky RIP
At some point in time an election will be held to fill Busansky’s position. No word on that. People are absorbing the shock of Busansky’s passing. She had an impressive career in Hillsborough County politics and will be missed.
