SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - A New Mexico legislator who was known for his advocacy in protecting people who are incapacitated and placed under legal guardianship has died, Senate Republicans announced Friday.
Republican Jim White served one term in the Senate representing parts of Albuquerque, and Sandoval, Santa Fe and Torrance counties. He lost a reelection bid in the June primary.
“We will miss his wise and calm demeanor and passion for public service,” the Senate Republican Caucus said in a statement Friday. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Senator White’s family members and friends.”
Senate Minority Whip Craig Brandt, a Rio Rancho Republican, told the Albuquerque Journal that one of White’s relatives found him at home. The cause of death wasn’t known.
White was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and served in Vietnam. He retired from work as an airport executive and served in the state House from 2009-14.
“He was a man that served his country, served his state and served his constituents well,” Brandt said.
White was honored by the New Mexico Foundation for Open Government in 2018 for his support in making the adult guardianship program more transparent.
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