Peter SchorschFormer State Representative Betty Easley was a proud self acclaimed “Army Brat.” She was from Texas and had a reputation as a straight shooter among her colleagues in the legislature. She rose through the ranks of her minority Republican Party on her intellect, tenacity, sense of humor and being a team player.
She became so popular that in 1986, the favored Republican candidate for Governor, Tom Gallagher selected Easley as his running mate. Their ticket came up short, but the set back did not diminish Rep. Easley’s respect from and influence among her Republican colleagues.
Among her fellow members, Betty was perhaps best known as the author of her annual book on explaining legislative jargon to the lay observer. She would typically point out the exact reverse intent of legislative rhetoric, like saying as an example, “I have nothing but the highest regard for the gentleman from the 16th (legislative district).” She would then point out that often members proceed to rip the very same gentleman to shreds in a speech on the house floor.
Rep. Betty Easley remains one of the most respected and beloved members serving during the Golden Era of the ’70’s and ’80’s in the Florida Legislature.
