Florida State Representative Joe Casello, whose career included service as a firefighter and a state legislator, has died at the age of 73 due to a heart attack. The news was confirmed by Florida House Democrats, who released a statement expressing condolences and gratitude from the family for the support received during this time. Prior to his death, Casello had been planning a 2026 campaign for a seat on the Palm Beach County Commission.
Casello's career included a range of public service roles—he served in the U.S. Air Force, spent 30 years as a firefighter in Worcester, Massachusetts, and later held office as a city commissioner in Boynton Beach before becoming a state legislator. A private ceremony will be held in Massachusetts, his home state, with information about a public memorial service expected in the coming weeks, CBS News reported.
In accordance with Florida law, Governor Ron DeSantis will now be responsible for calling a special election to fill the legislative seat that has been vacated due to Casello's death. The announcement of this election will bring forward a new chapter for the constituents Casello served, NBC Miami relayed.
