Rep. Demetrius Newton (D-Birmingham) passed away yesterday. Rep. Newton served Jefferson County for 27 years in the State Legislature, and was the first African-American Speaker Pro Tem in the State of Alabama. He was so well-respected that even when Republicans took over the majority in 2010, the newly elected Caucus unanimously agreed that he should retain his seat in the front row of the Chamber, a seat normally reserved for Members of the Leadership. Speaker of the House, Mike Hubbard (R- Auburn) said," Representative Newton was a true gentleman and I considered him to be a great friend for the 15 yers that I had the honor of knowing him. He was an intelligent, kind, and fair man as well as a respected and knowledgeable legislator who fought for his district. His 27 years of service to the Alabama Legislature and his incredible impact on the Civil Rights movement will forever be a powerful part of Alabama History". Rep. Newton was indeed a kind man, and he was very nice to us as new legislators. I was privileged to serve on the County/Municipal Government Committee with him. Please pray for his family.
Posted on: Thu, 12 Sep 2013 14:13:10 +0000