Today, Senator Gwen Margolis passed away. Margolis was a tireless advocate for the poor, women, minorities and the LGBTQ community. During her career, she fought for progressive and social issues, and to make the government more accountable and transparent to the public. Her forty years of public service spanned from local to state politics, including becoming the first woman president in the Florida Senate.
When asked by a reporter why she first ran for office in 1974 she replied: “My decision was part of the women’s movement, and I realized the only way our issues could get attention was to run for office.”
Florida Democratic Party Chair Terrie Rizzo released the following statement:
“Today, our party mourns the loss of a pioneer. Gwen Margolis was a hardworking leader with a remarkable career. She was a trailblazer for many Democratic women in our state, including myself. During these difficult times as a nation, when our country needs exceptional leaders like Gwen Margolis, her passion, commitment, and leadership will be remembered more than ever. We send our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones.”