This week, state Sen. Wilton Simpson, R-Trilby, was designated as the next president of the Florida Senate.
Simpson will take over from current Senate President Bill Galvano, R-Bradenton, after the 2020 elections and will lead the chamber for two years.
“Entering public service amid a long and successful career in the private sector, President-Designate Simpson understands firsthand many of the challenges and opportunities facing the job creators who drive our economy, a perspective we have all benefited from over the years,” said Galvano. “As a member of the Florida Senate, he has distinguished himself as a strong leader through his hard work and commitment to his constituents in District 10; to the Republican Caucus during his service as majority leader for the 2016-2018 term; and to the people of Florida as a whole. I am confident my friend, Senator Simpson, will lead the Senate with the same steadfast commitment to excellence he has demonstrated throughout his entire career.”
State Sen. Travis Hutson, R-St. Augustine, nominated Galvano.
“Wilton, there isn’t a soul in this chamber today who hasn’t been blessed by your encouragement, a well-deserved attaboy, or even a swift kick in the pants – but always with smiling eyes,” Hutson said. “You know first-hand how one decision from this city can affect the hard-working Floridians living in this state, and carry the weight and wisdom of their burdens with you each time you enter this room.”
“His dedication to the people of Florida, his commitment to the mission of this institution, his drive and determination and his love for his family – those are the qualities that will make Wilton Simpson an exceptional Senate president,” said Senate Majority Leader Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples, when she seconded the nomination.
“I am humbled and honored by the unanimous vote of my caucus colleagues and the steadfast support of my family and friends,” said Simpson. “We owe it to every Floridian to make sure our service is marked by leaving it better for the next generation. It is going to take a lot of work, but work is what we are made for.”
First elected to the Senate in 2012, Simpson led the Community Affairs Committee until 2016. After winning a second term in 2016, he led the Innovation, Industry, and Technology Committee and was the vice-chairman of the Appropriations Committee. From 2016 through 2018, Simpson was the Senate majority leader. He represents all of Hernando and Citrus Counties and parts of Pasco County.
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