Georgia Rep. Bobby Franklin Found Dead

MARIETTA, Ga. - Cobb County police say a longtime lawmaker known for his outspoken conservative views and frequent "no" votes on legislation has been found dead at his home in Marietta.

Police spokesman Mike Bowman said Rep. Bobby Franklin's death is being treated "as a natural death" and foul play is not suspected. The Marietta Republican was 56.

Franklin was first elected to the state House in 1996. He regularly introduced legislation -- which never successfully passed -- to define abortion as murder in Georgia and often stood as the only N in a sea of Y's for even minor legislation.

Franklin graduated from Covenant College on Lookout Mountain, Ga., with a degree in Biblical studies and business administration. He is originally from Birmingham, Ala.

He was a business consultant.

GOVERNOR NATHAN DEAL RELEASED THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT ABOUT REP. FRANKLIN'S DEATH ON TUESDAY:

”I was shocked and saddened to hear of Rep. Bobby Franklin’s death. Bobby served the people of Georgia as a representative from Cobb County for nearly 15 years, and he never wavered in his conviction to his principles. He staunchly defended our Second Amendment rights, and he passionately promoted the sanctity of life. The unexpected loss of a colleague at such a young age compounds the tragedy. Sandra and I extend our sincerest condolences to the Franklin family; we will keep them in our thoughts and prayers.