Peter Antonacci, 74, was a state leader Florida Governors trusted with sensitive matters, including his recent appointment to the newly-formed state election crimes office.
“He was a dedicated, tenacious, and assiduous public servant, lawyer, and respected professional — a friend to all in the State of Florida. He vigilantly sought to uphold the law throughout his lengthy career,” Governor DeSantis said in a statement. “His fighting passion will be missed, and his legacy will persist in the hearts and minds of many.”
Antonacci was appointed to several positions by former Governor Rick Scott, including Palm Beach County state attorney, Broward Supervisor of Elections, and Executive Director of the South Florida Water Management District.
“Pete Antonacci was a dedicated public servant and a devoted family man. Ann and I are devastated to learn of his loss and are praying for his family, friends, and the countless Floridians who knew and loved Pete as we did,” said US Senator Rick Scott.
Pete “devoted decades of his life to serving Florida families as a prosecutor, master of the law, and leader. When it came to his work, Pete could get anything done,” Scott said in a statement. “Pete worked hard, with total integrity, and knew how to bring people together and solve problems. I was honored to call him a friend and proud to work with him. Pete will be terribly missed but leaves behind a remarkable legacy of honorable service to our great State of Florida.”
Antonacci served alongside former Attorney General Bob Butterworth as deputy and statewide prosecutor. Butterworth was at his swearing-in ceremony in 2018 when he was appointed Supervisor of Elections.
Friends and colleagues on Friday expressed condolences to Antonacci’s family as government officials grieved.
Broward’s state Republican committeeman, Richard DeNapoli, wrote on Twitter that Antonacci’s death is “very sad news. He was a great friend and mentor.”
A spokesperson for Charlie Crist’s campaign said Antonacci was a “dedicated and respected public servant.”
