LOUISVILLE, Ky (AP) â Kentucky state Sen. Tom Buford has died, Senate President Pro Tempore David Givens announced Tuesday. He was 72 years old.
Buford, of Nicholasville, represented the 22nd District in the Kentucky Senate for more than 30 years. He served as Senate Republican whip from 1991 to 1992.
Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle mourned Buford’s passing Tuesday, expressing condolences for his family members.
In a statement, U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell recalled Buford as a âa giant of the Kentucky Senate.”
âI had the pleasure of working closely with Tom and know how deeply committed he was to our state and its people,â McConnell said. âTom was unafraid to take on tough issues and fought hard for Kentuckyâs most vulnerable, with a special focus on the disabled. The impact of his work could be felt far beyond the borders of his State Senate district, improving the lives of Kentuckians throughout the Commonwealth.â