Former Florida Governor Buddy MacKay, who briefly served in office following the sudden passing of Governor Lawton Chiles in 1998, has passed away at the age of 91. MacKay, who was defeated by Jeb Bush in the election but took on the role of governor for 23 days, peacefully passed away at his home in Ocklawaha, Florida after a nap, according to his son Ken MacKay.
As Chiles’ lieutenant governor for two terms, MacKay transitioned into the governor’s position after Chiles’ death and focused on overseeing the handover to Bush’s administration. While reflecting on that time in a 2012 interview, MacKay described it as overwhelmingly sad, emphasizing his role as a caretaker during the transition period.
Known for his sense of humor, MacKay never lost his lightheartedness despite three unsuccessful statewide election bids. Following his political career, he worked as a special envoy to Latin America for President Bill Clinton before retiring to his home in central Florida. MacKay remained active in public service through pro bono work and juvenile court mediation.
Despite his impressive political background, MacKay faced a close defeat in the 1988 U.S. Senate race, losing to Republican Connie Mack III by a narrow margin. His political journey included collaborations with Chiles and various attempts at higher offices, showcasing his dedication to public service and his state.
In the latter half of the 20th century, Kenneth H. MacKay embarked on his political journey during a significant era of state integration. Having been raised amidst the complexities of segregation, MacKay’s formative years were spent toiling in the fields alongside Black laborers, attending segregated schools, and dining in restaurants divided along racial lines. Reflecting on this period, MacKay expressed, “It was fairly wrenching. It was always very awkward. My family was involved in agriculture, and I spent many days in the field working with African American crews, some of whom were like family and played a role in my upbringing.”
MacKay’s perspectives on race relations and the possibilities for desegregation underwent a profound evolution during his tenure in the U.S. Air Force from 1955 to 1958. Recalling this transformative phase, he noted, “Not until I entered the military did I perceive the potential for moving past this divisive chapter. Stepping into that environment, I witnessed seamless integration from day one, devoid of any issues. It was a truly liberating experience.”
Born on March 22, 1933, in Ocala, MacKay shed light on his moniker, stating, “In the old South, which I hail from, ‘Buddy’ denotes a junior. Judges and educators addressed me as Kenneth, but in daily interactions, ‘Buddy’ was the norm. I identify more with ‘Buddy’ than ‘Kenneth’.” Following his military service, MacKay transitioned into a legal career and citrus cultivation. His political journey commenced with his election to the state House in 1968, followed by the state Senate in 1974, and subsequently to the U.S. House in 1982, albeit falling short in his bid for the U.S. Senate.
This article was contributed by Kate Payne, a dedicated member of The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a commendable nonprofit initiative that deploys journalists to local newsrooms to shed light on underreported issues. Furthermore, Kallestad, a former Associated Press journalist, was instrumental in the development of this piece.
