Daniel Thomas McCarty was born January 18, 1912 at Fort Pierce, Florida. He graduated from the University of Florida in 1934 and settled in Fort Pierce as a citrus grower and beef cattleman. He represented St. Lucie County in the Florida House of Representatives from 1937 to 1941. He was elected governor in 1952. As governor, he reorganized the Road Department, began a state construction program, centralized purchasing, and increased state revenues. While governor, he suffered a heart attack on February 25, 1953, and died from another attack on September 28, 1953. As Senate President, Charley Johns stepped in as the Acting Governor.
Charley Eugene Johns was born on February 27, 1905 in Stake, Florida. He attended the University of Florida but did not graduate. He returned to Starke to become a railroad conductor, insuranceman, and banker. He served in the Florida House Representatives in 1935-1937, and Florida Senate from 1937-1966. Johns became Acting Governor on September 28, 1953 upon McCarty's death. During his administration, Johns expanded the state roads and highways and advocated prison reform. Johns was defeated by LeRoy Collins in the special election of May, 1954 to complete the unexpired term. After his defeat, Johns returned to serve in the Senate until 1966. After his retirement, he lived in Starke until his death on January 23, 1990.
From the description of Correspondence, 1953. (Florida State Archive). WorldCat record id: 32414120
