State Rep. Bobby Franklin found dead in Cobb County home

State Rep. Bobby Franklin, the controversial, far-right Republican lawmaker from Cobb County, has been found dead in his home, Jim Galloway reports.

UPDATE, 3:22 p.m.: The AJC says police have determined there was no foul play in the death of Franklin, who, according to a longtime friend who discovered the lawmaker’s body this morning, had been complaining for several weeks about chest pains. Franklin did not attend church on Sunday and hadn’t returned phone calls, so the friend went to check on him.

UPDATE, 3:36 p.m.: Says Gov. Nathan Deal in a statement:

“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.”