Brendan Farrington, a mainstay of Florida political reporting for more than a quarter century, has died at the age of 60. A veteran journalist for The Associated Press, Farrington passed away Friday at his home in Tallahassee following a brief illness. Those who worked alongside him remember him not only as a seasoned professional but as a fair and kind presence in the often contentious world of state politics, known for his sharp wit and an uncanny ability to cultivate sources across the entire political spectrum.
Originally from Massachusetts, Farrington built a storied career that spanned everything from high stakes gubernatorial races to the devastating impact of Atlantic hurricanes. Former Governor Jeb Bush described him as an old school journalist and a true professional. His colleagues recall how he could pivot seamlessly from breaking hard news to documenting the sheer absurdity of life in the Sunshine State. He was particularly fond of his annual weird Florida roundups, which highlighted the most bizarre local occurrences with a signature blend of curiosity and grace.
Farrington was respected for his tenacity and commitment to accuracy, even when facing intense pressure from powerful figures. In 2021, he found himself at the center of a firestorm when he reported on connections between a donor to Governor Ron DeSantis and a COVID 19 treatment manufacturer. Despite receiving public threats and online abuse from administration officials, Farrington maintained his composure with characteristic humility, reminding his followers that freedom of the press was paramount while jokingly pleading for his own safety.
Beyond the headlines, Farrington was remembered as a mentor to younger reporters and a man who genuinely loved people. Whether he was visiting every major league ballpark or posting selfies with strangers he met at bars or restaurants, he approached life with an open heart. His wife, Amy Farrington, noted that he believed in the inherent decency within everyone he encountered. He is survived by his wife, their son Cullen, his mother Ethel, and four siblings.
