Desantis Awards

Florida Government Ron DeSantis Five Floridians were awarded after their death, including singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett, as well as former Republican and Democratic politicians, and the governor’s Medal of Freedom.

“I am proud to recognize the legacy of these great Floridians,” DeSantis said in a statement.

“Our state has contributed better to them and we are proud of their name as home in Florida,” he continued. “Each of them has won the honor of awarding the Governor’s Medal of Freedom.”

The governor awarded one of the state’s highest honors, former Republican U.S. Rep. and State Rep. Lincoln Diaz-Balart, former Democratic governor and U.S. Sen. Bob Graham, former Democratic governor and U.S. Rep. Buddy Mackay, and former Republican Florida House Speaker John Thrasher.

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Buffett, who Died in 2023 At the age of 76, he was a legendary music icon who became famous in the 1970s and was known for hits like “Margaritaville” and “Chicky Burger in Paradise.”

In addition to his musical pursuits, Buffett was involved in the business, opening restaurants, resorts and merchandise under the “Margaritaville” brand, including his first Margaritaville store in Key West in 1985 and a Margaritaville Café nearby two years later.

“His legacy continues to influence the music and culture of the coastal Florida communities,” a message from the governor’s office said.

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Lincoln Díaz-Balart was a Cuban-American man who was exiled to his homeland after the communist revolution. (Douglas Graham/Scrolling Phone)

Diaz-Balart, who died at the age of 70, is a Cuban-American who was exiled to his homeland after the communist revolution. He was a powerful advocate of opposition to communism and oppression and worked hard to secure freedom during his tenure, which included working in the House and Senate in Florida, before serving in the U.S. House.

Graham, who was 87 last year, served in two parliaments in the Florida Legislature, then served as governor and U.S. Senator.

“Graham is a Democrat and is widely respected for his work in education, environmental protection and national security,” the release of the governor’s office said.

John Thrasher serves as Speaker of Florida and serves as President of Florida State University. (Getty Image)

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Mackay is the state’s last Democratic governor, 91 years old last year. Sunshine State The governor under the Clinton administration and later the U.S. envoy.

Thrasher, who served as president of Florida State University, chair of the Republican Party of Florida and two conference rooms in the state legislature, died earlier this year at the age of 81. He also served in the army during the Vietnam War.

Fox News Digital contacted the Governor’s Office for additional comments.