Jacob Ogles
Professional wrestler Hulk Hogan, arguably the biggest star in the sport’s history, influenced culture and politics before his Thursday death. He even spoke at the Republican National Convention last year, where he called President Donald Trump his “hero.”
Political leaders in Florida, the state Hogan long called home, mourned the icon upon news of his passing.
Gov. Ron DeSantis addressed the death at a press conference: “We were with him just a couple of months ago. My kids got to meet them and everything. So I was really sad to see that. And our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and people throughout this region of Florida, because I know so many people cared about him.”
U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody, a Plant City Republican, posted: “Today, we Floridians mourn the loss of one of our own, Hulk Hogan. He was a fixture in American culture and a proud patriot.”
U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, a Naples Republican, posted: “RIP Brother.”
U.S. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, a St. Petersburg Republican, posted: “RIP to the great Hulk Hogan, who lived right here in FL-13. It was an honor to be your Representative. Gone, but the legend of Hulkamania will run wild forever.”
U.S. Rep. Brian Mast, a Stuart Republican, posted: “Saddened to learn of the passing of Hulk Hogan today—a Florida legend who inspired all of us with his strength, charisma, and sportsmanship. I’m sending prayers to his family & fans across the world. Rest in peace, brother.”
U.S. Rep. Jimmy Patronis, a Fort Walton Beach Republican, posted: “Hulk Hogan was an American legend, a true patriot, and a great Floridian. There will never be another great showman quite like Thunderlips. RIP BROTHER!”
U.S. Rep. Greg Steube, a Sarasota Republican, posted: “Rest in peace to a legend.”
Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia, a Spring Hill Republican, posted: “Sad to hear of the passing of the one and only Hulk Hogan. Rest is peace brotherrrrrr.”
State Sen. Jay Collins, a Tampa Republican, posted: “Hulk Hogan is an American icon who brought families together— a larger than life personality, unapologetically patriotic, and a symbol of strength for a generation. He told kids to say their prayers, eat their vitamins, and believe in themselves #WhatYouGonnaDoBrother— values we could all use more of today. My condolences go out to his family and the millions he entertained throughout his life.”
State Sen. Debbie Mayfield, an Indialantic Republican, posted: “I had the opportunity to see Hulk Hogan at the RNC He was a bigger than life person and electrified the crowd when he spoke Condolences to his family. He will be missed.”
State Rep. Berny Jacques, a Seminole Republican, posted: “RIP, Hulk Hogan. In addition to being an American legend and a Pinellas resident, my favorite thing about him is that he recently came to Christ and had been attending church in House District 59. Rest easy, brother. We’ll see you again.”
State Rep. Kiyan Michael, a Jacksonville Republican, posted: “Our son’s hero from back in the early 90’s. We outfitted him with Hulk’s sweater, cap, pants, winter gloves etc…it was Hulk everywhere in the Michael home. God bless Hulks family.”
State Rep. Meg Weinberger, a Palm Beach Gardens Republican, posted: “Rest in peace, Hulk Hogan. An American icon and a wrestling legend who defined childhoods for so many. My prayers are with his family and loved ones during this time. Legends never die, brother.”
Former state House Speaker Paul Renner, a Palatka Republican: “Florida has lost a legend. Hulk Hogan was a proud Floridian whose larger-than-life spirit inspired millions. We’re joining fans around the world in praying for his family and friends.”
Republican Party of Florida statement: “With heavy hearts, we say goodbye to Hulk Hogan, the ultimate American icon who left the ring at 71. This red, white & blue titan was a true patriot. Hulk was as American as it gets! Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania’s legacy runs wild on you, brother? Rest in peace, champ!”
