A Kentucky lawmaker who was critically injured when the lawn mower he was riding plunged into an empty swimming pool has made progress in his recovery, a legislative spokesman said Wednesday.
State Sen. Johnnie Turner was able to sit upright and communicate on Tuesday and continued to improve Wednesday, said Dustin Isaacs, a spokesman for the Republican supermajority in the Kentucky Senate.
“While he remains in ICU and in some pain, we are grateful for this positive progression,” Isaacs said in a statement.
Turner, a Republican from Harlan, was injured Sunday when he drove his mower into the deep end of the pool at his home, Kentucky State Police said. No details were provided as to what caused the accident.
Turner was taken to a local hospital and then transferred to the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville. His family has requested prayers for his “speedy recovery,” Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers has said.
Kentucky Lawmaker's Accident
Turner, an attorney, represents multiple counties in eastern Kentucky. He won election to the state Senate in 2020, ousting a Democratic incumbent with a nearly identical name. Turner defeated two challengers in the Republican primary in May, and he is being challenged by an independent candidate in the November election. Turner previously served in the Kentucky House from 1999 to 2002.
The incident occurred late Sunday afternoon when the 76-year-old senator was riding the mower at his home. Emergency services received a 911 call shortly before 8 p.m. Turner was taken to Harlan ARH Hospital and then flown to UT Medical Center.
The Incident
The incident has sent shockwaves through the state's political circles. Turner is a well-known figure in Kentucky politics, and his recovery is a top priority for many.
Coal Industry Advocate
Turner is a staunch defender of the coal industry, once the backbone of the eastern Kentucky economy. Coal employment in Kentucky fell sharply over the last decade as cheaper natural gas prices and tougher environmental regulations prompted electric providers to move away from buying coal.
Legislative Impact
Kentucky's GOP-dominated legislature will begin its 2025 session in January. Until then, lawmakers are meeting in interim committees to study a range of issues in preparation for next year's 30-day session.
A Call for Prayers
The family requests prayers for a speedy recovery. While the extent of Turner's injuries remains unclear, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety precautions when operating machinery. As Turner continues his recovery, the state of Kentucky is keeping him in their thoughts and prayers.
