Jim Florio, a Democrat who served as governor of New Jersey from 1990-1994, died on Sunday night at age 85.

As the third governor of the state since casino gambling came to Atlantic City in 1978, Florio was seen as more of a friend to the industry than Republican predecessor Thomas Kean. The industry was so eager for Florio to be of assistance that it published a “wish list” of measures just days after the November 1989 election.

Trump Plaza Casino Hotel President Jack O’Donnell said at the time, “Certainly [Florio] getting involved in the redevelopment of the infrastructure in this area is critical.”