The longest-serving House speaker in the history of Maryland, Michael E. Busch, died Sunday afternoon after being hospitalized late last month with pneumonia. Referred to as “Coach” by many, he was a transformational leader who was a strong supporter of education funding, environmental protections and expansion of health care coverage. He was 72.
“This is a profoundly sad day for Maryland,” Hogan said in a statement. “Mike Busch was a giant in our government—the longest serving Speaker in our state’s history. He cared deeply about improving the lives of Marylanders, and his legacy is evident in his many legislative achievements.” – Governor Larry Hogan
“My heart is broken for Mike Busch’s family, the State of Maryland, and the Speaker’s extended family – elected officials and staff that he has been a mentor and coach to over his time in public service. Mike has been a friend for years, and has led the state to new heights of environmentalism and education, while ensuring that a new generation of leaders move our state forward. He was a true model of a State Delegate; he cared for every corner of the state, but never forgot about the people he was elected to represent. I will miss him as a friend and partner in state government and I join all the state in mourning his passing.” – Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller, Jr.
Additional coverage of the Speaker’s death can be found in the publications below.
Maryland Matters
MarylandReporter
Baltimore Sun
Washington Post
Annapolis Capital
The Daily Record
