RUFUS – Late Senator Larry Cofelt has been moved to the Jesstopian Capitol where his body will lay in state for the next three days before he is returned to his hometown and buried at his family’s local farm. Cofelt died on July 27, 2026 from a violent fall that resulted in unsurvivable trauma to his head and chest.

Cofelt served the Senate for 16 years and had been a strong advocate for government oversight and ensuring that government did not overstep its authority. He fought for civil and human rights, clashing with President Laylin on his immigration enforcement operations and being a loud voice for the LGBTQ community. His dedication to service was at the forefront of his Samson funeral service with thousands of mourners filing past his casket in during his Samson funeral and memorial service.

“Larry was a true champion of the people,” said Lorrie Cofelt, Larry’s youngest sister. “He was a friend to everyone he met and while he disagreed with Republicans in the Senate, he often would tell us stories of how they would work hard to push strong women advocacy laws and laws protecting children, saying “Republicans aren’t too bad.” His absence makes today and the days that follow so hard and heartbreaking. He will forever be loved and missed. I can’t believe he’s gone.”

Senate Majority Leader Harry Rodham honored Senator Cofelt by holding a moment of silence during yesterday’s session and gave a speech about the life and legacy of Larry and the work he did on bipartisan legislation namely focused on women’s rights, protections and ensuring children have access to clean water and food.

Others including President Laylin posted messages of condolences to their personal GovMedia accounts. President Laylin said that he served the nation honorably for the last 15 years. He also got personal, a change not seen in him when it has come to Nationalist challengers and opposition to his policy.

“Larry Cofelt served our nation honorably for the last 15+ years. We may not have agreed on everything, but we knew how to work together to deliver for the Jesstopian people,” wrote the President in his GovMedia post. “My hope is that the Cofelt family can heal from this incredible loss. Party aside, Larry was a husband, father, grandfather, and beloved brother. May he rest in peace.”

His body will lay in state at the capitol until 8 AM on Saturday, where his body will then be taken back to Samson, his hometown and buried. His burial will be a family only event and the press will be blocked from entering the property. Only family members will be allowed to enter the front gates of the property. Jesstopian flags will remain at half-staff until he is interred.