Isaac Robinson, a 44-year-old member of the Michigan State House Representatives, died at 44 with breathing complications that resemble those of COVID-19, which is caused by the CCP virus.
“It is with extreme sadness that I share the passing of Rep. Isaac Robinson, who was a passionate advocate for his community and constituents,” House Democratic Leader Christine Greig said according to 7 Action News. “Our entire Democratic Caucus is devastated by the loss of our colleague and send our deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
Robinson, a Democrat, represented Michigan’s 4th district, which included Hamtramck and parts of Detroit. He had formerly served as director for the Teamsters Union, according to Crain’s Detroit Business.
Robinson’s mother, former Rep. Mary Rose Robinson, told the outlet that her son was admitted to the hospital at 6 a.m. on Sunday, having trouble breathing. He died later in the day. Robinson was not tested for the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, commonly known as novel coronavirus.
“I called EMS, they took him to Receiving at 6 a.m., and he was dead by 11,” his mother told Crain’s.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer also shared her condolences on Twitter:
“Rep. Isaac Robinson had a huge heart, a quick wit, and a genuine passion for the people. I am very sad to hear of his passing. He was a fierce advocate for Detroiters and people across Southeast Michigan,” Whitmer wrote.
“He dedicated his career to ensuring justice and security for those he served, and the impact he had on his community will continue to be felt for years to come. Rep. Robinson will be missed by many, including me,” she added. “It was an honor to serve the people of Michigan alongside him.”
He dedicated his career to ensuring justice and security for those he served, and the impact he had on his community will continue to be felt for years to come. Rep. Robinson will be missed by many, including me. It was an honor to serve the people of Michigan alongside him.
— Governor Gretchen Whitmer (@GovWhitmer) March 30, 2020
Another Michigan House representative of Detroit, Tyrone Carter, who also tested positive for the CCP virus earlier in the week, said he was recovering from the disease but that he felt “devastated” about the loss of Robinson.
“I’m on the recovery road,” Carter told Crain’s. “Mentally, this one knocked the wind out of me. Detroit just lost a warrior.”
“A lot people didn’t know how brilliant he was,” Carter added. “You’d never know Isaac went to UM. You’d never know Isaac went to Northwestern Law School with (Michigan) Supreme Court Justice (Richard) Bernstein.”
