Democratic state legislator Joe Casello, who represented Florida House District 90, died Friday, July 18, 2025, following complications from a massive heart attack suffered earlier this month.
Representative Joe Casello was 73 years old.
A life dedicated to public service
Joe Casello, a veteran public servant, had been first elected to the state Legislature in 2018.
It represented a portion of Palm Beach County that includes Boynton Beach, a community with a growing Hispanic population.
He was re-elected in November 2024 for his fourth consecutive term, with solid support from his constituents.
He had recently registered his candidacy for the Palm Beach County Commission election scheduled for November 2026.
Prior to his foray into politics, Joe Casello worked for 33 years as a firefighter in Worcester, Massachusetts.
His calling for service led him to move to Florida and begin his political career in 2013, when he was elected as a Boynton Beach city commissioner.
His legacy has been recognized by both his colleagues and the community.
The tragic outcome of Joe Casello
According to the Palm Beach Post, Casello was hospitalized approximately two weeks ago after experiencing severe chest pains.
He was admitted to a regional hospital where he remained on life support until the morning of July 18, when he was disconnected in the presence of his family and his romantic partner.
In his final hours, he received a visit from his friend and fellow legislator, Republican Mike Caruso, a representative from Delray Beach.
Mike Caruso related that Joe Casello was lucid a day before his passing and that he even joked.
“See if you can get them to name a fire truck after me,” Casello said.
A day before his death, Casello himself issued a public statement in which he said:
“My life has always been dedicated to public service and the needs of my community.
“To have served as a firefighter for 33 years and as an elected official for 13 has been the greatest honor of my life.
“Representing the people – in times of unity and division, triumph and defiance – has been a privilege I will always treasure.”
Reactions and next steps
The Florida House Democratic Caucus confirmed the news on their social media:
“We deeply regret to report that Rep. Joe Casello has passed away, surrounded by his family and girlfriend, following a heart attack.
“The family sincerely appreciates the love and support received during this difficult time.”
Nikki Fried, chairwoman of the Florida Democratic Party, also expressed her sorrow and assured that Casello will be “deeply missed.”
Governor Ron DeSantis must call a special election to fill the vacant seat, as required by Florida state law. At this time, a specific date for such election has not been announced.
Joe Casello Funeral Services
Buzzy
According to the official statement from the Democratic Caucus, a private ceremony will be held in Massachusetts, the legislator’s home state.
A date for a public memorial service will be announced in the coming weeks so that the community can pay tribute to him.
This information may be especially useful for Hispanic residents of South Florida.
Joe Casello was a key figure in local issues that directly affect hard-working communities, including many Latino families.
In addition, the special election replacement process could open up political opportunities in a district where the Hispanic vote carries significant weight.
Representing the people—in times of unity and division, triumph and challenge—has been a privilege I will always treasure
Joe Casello
