Kentuckians are offering condolences and praise for state Senator Johnny Turner, a Republican from Harlan who died from complications following a lawn mowing accident a few weeks ago.

He was 76.

Turner served in the Kentucky House from 1999 to 2002.

He'd been in the state Senate since 2021.

Turner was hurt last month when he fell into an empty swimming pool while riding a lawn mower.

He was then sent to a Tennessee hospital and died last night.

State Senate President Robert Stivers released this statement, quote, Johnny spent his life lifting others, whether through his service in the U.S. Army, as a member of the state House of Representatives and state Senate, or in his private legal practice.

His unwavering commitment to the people of Eastern Kentucky, his constituents, brothers and sisters in Christ, whom he so fondly referred to as his people, was at the heart of everything he did.

End quote.

Governor Andy Beshear posted this quote Brittany and I are saddened by the news of Senator Johnny Turner's passing.

We send our condolences and prayers to his family and friends during this difficult time.

End quote.

Senator Turner was unopposed for reelection on November 5th.

His name will still appear on the ballot as well.

An independent candidate who withdrew from the race.

Write in candidates need to file by Friday.

The right end with the most votes will win the seat if no one runs as a write in a special election will be held sometime later.