Burnt Orange Report

Joe Moreno Remembered

By Byron LaMasters

Many Texans of both parties are remembering the life of State Rep. Joe Moreno who was killed last night in a car accident. Here are some of things that have been written today about Joe Moreno.

Texas Democratic Party Chair Charles Soechting:

"Texas Democrats are saddened by the tragic death early this morning of our friend, Joe Moreno.

Joe represented Houston's east end with integrity and aplomb. His deeply rooted commitment to mainstream values made his constituents proud and embodied what his party stands for.

Our prayers are with his friends and family."

Harris County Democratic Party:

With respect and great sadness, the Harris County Democratic Party mourns the loss of this dedicated public servant and extends its deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones.

Governor Rick Perry:

Gov. Rick Perry today ordered flags to be flown at half-staff at state buildings in memory of State Rep. Joe Moreno

“Anita and I are saddened by the loss of a respected member of the Legislature who served his constituents with great dedication and integrity, Rep. Joe Moreno,” Perry said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Joe’s family and friends during this difficult time. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.”

Speaker Tom Craddick:

"We are in shock this morning. Nothing can prepare you for the sudden loss of someone that you see and talk with everyday. Joe was a young man with a bright future who early on, distinguished himself in his district and in the House," said Speaker of the Texas House Tom Craddick.

He said that he had been at the hospital since hearing the news.

"This has been a discouraging and heartbreaking morning in which I have prayed for everyone involved. We are grateful that Rafael and Monica are okay, but my wife Nadine and I are so grieved for the loss of Joe and for what his family must now face."

Chris Bell:

Alison and I were deeply saddened to receive word this morning that our friend, State Representative Joe Moreno, lost his life in a tragic automobile accident and we wish to extend our most heartfelt sympathies to his family.

Joe was a stand-up guy with a big heart, a great sense of humor and a strong dedication to public service. I got to know him best when we were all fighting together to stop redistricting in 2003. Joe didn’t play games and he didn’t make any of us beg; he said he would be in the fight all the way - and he was. Every Democratic member of the Texas congressional district was extraordinarily grateful.

It is always difficult to find words to adequately express feelings at a time of sorrow but perhaps some solace can be found in knowing that while Joe was taken much too soon, memories of him will live on and on – memories of a big, happy man doing whatever he could to lift up those around him. Joe, you will be sorely missed by so many. May God’s peace shine upon you in the better place you now find yourself.

State Rep. Aaron Pena:

What I remember about Joe was his love of politics, gadgets and sports. In fact he and Rep. Anchia supposedly had a friendly wager on the Rockets-Mavericks series, where the loser would have to wear the jersey of the winning team. Rafael is from Dallas and Joe from Houston.

Joe also loved to show me all the latest electronic gadgets. The cell phone I use was recommended to me by Joe. He was always one step ahead of the pack, always looking for the newest item coming out of Japan or Germany.

The second anniversary of the Killer D's is coming up next week. Joe was a good friend and an important participant in those trying times in Ardmore. Joe had shirts printed up and playing cards made to share with the other members. I remember we all spent one very special night at a "rib joint" called Budrows in Ardmore. About 15 reps. gathered for a good meal as we enjoyed the camaraderie of the moment. Joe was the life of the evening.

Joe, we are all going to miss you. Thank you for your service but most especially for your friendship.

And when we gather next week to remember those perilous days in Ardmore, we will all take a moment to remember you brother.

Until we meet again.

Houston political consultant Marc Campos:

My good friend State Representative Joe E. Moreno had died in a car accident. Joe was going back to Austin after the Rockets game late last night. I was at the game last night, didn't see Joe - now I wish I had.

Talked to Joe a couple of times last week about politics. I told him earlier in the year that I thought it was gutsy of him to be one of the four House members to cast a vote against Tom Craddick for Texas House Speaker. Privately I was proud that one of my guys had the fortitude to stand up and do the right thing.

Joe was a client. I put together his winning strategy for his election to the state House in 1998. I met Joe when he was working for former State Representative Al Luna.

Joe loved life. I can't believe he's gone. In my office I have his campaign letterhead, envelopes, and photos. What to you do with his stuff?

I feel for his family. I'll miss Joe.

More reaction over at Dos Centavos, Rio Grande Valley Politics, Greg's Opinion, The Red State and Off the Kuff.

Update: More in the Houston Chronicle.