INFLUENCE Magazine - Summer 2025

‘CONSENSUS’ GETTING TO

How one firm rewrote Florida’s political map

Golden Rotunda Winners Corcoran Partners • Heather Turnbull

Edgar Castro • Albie Kaminsky • FHCA

The Southern Group • RSA Consulting

Oscar J. Braynon, II possesses a very rare combination of traits—intelligence, determination, and the ability to authentically connect with people—that make him a compelling leader and a powerfully effective advocate. Oscar’s leadership style propelled him to become Florida’s Senate Minority Leader as an elected official and drives his ability to deliver for his clients in South Florida and Tallahassee as a lobbyist at The Southern Group. Need an advocate who can manage your interests with that level of leadership? Reach out to The Southern Group to start charting your path to success.

A Summer like no other

For most Floridians, Summer kicks off Memorial Day weekend with delicious barbecues and spectacular fireworks displays. It’s a symbol that’s as American as apple pie.

But for those in The Process, there’s a different symbol synonymous with the season: a white hankie.

For those who work in Florida politics, Summer doesn’t really start until at least Sine Die, and more likely after the budget is signed. Most of the time, those two things largely align. But not this year.

As you all know, the Legislative Session that was supposed to end at the beginning of May dragged on until mid-June. The budget wasn’t signed until the end of June. So for reporters, lobbyists, lawmakers and legislative staff, Summer really didn’t get going until Fourth of July Weekend.

As much as we thank everyone in The Process for their diligence, our postponed vacations do not. And our usually extended reprieve has now been cut to a matter of mere weeks, with committee weeks just around the corner in September to gear up for a January Session.

Nevertheless, the extended Session left us with much to celebrate in what is my personal favorite season. This edition of INFLUENCE features a recognition of one of the state’s preeminent consulting firms, Consensus Communications, alongside our annual Golden Rotundas, an extensively discussed, debated and researched accounting of the best of the best in Florida’s lobby corps.

I’m especially proud of this year’s class of honorees, because more individuals are being recognized for the first time now more than ever. That’s due in part to seeking out untold stories of legislative victories. But it’s also largely because of a wide array of lobbying powerhouses whose planes have finally landed.

Many of this year’s first-time honorees are being recognized for work that took years to bear fruit. And their recognition, along with some whose names we see often on lists like these, is especially important for its role in helping to craft the Influence 150.

We also know that so many of our honorees boast

these awards on their websites and résumés, and we take that responsibility, as the ones bestowing the honor, very seriously. We speak with legislative leadership and top lobbyists in Florida to curate possible honorees, and hone them after extensive consideration and scrutinization to make the Golden Rotundas a truly peer-driven award.

And just to keep it light, we’ve added some insights from political savant  Rick Wilson, with tidbits from an interview that not surprisingly was peppered with colorful language and blunt remarks.

And what would Summer be without debating the pros and cons of pickleball, even from a tennis purist?

We also have a fun story about a consultant who owns a Philly cheesesteak chain. And we feature one of our favorite consultants,  Josh Cooper, who, when he’s not whipping votes in the Legislature, is busy gathering awards and various accolades as a barbecue legend.

As always, INFLUENCE features a little something for everyone. As you read it, we hope you are well into enjoying your Summer, or at least whatever is left of it.

Peter Schorsch Publisher Peter@FloridaPolitics.com

Michelle, Ella and Peter Schorsch, Summer 2025.

PUBLISHER Peter Schorsch

DIRECTOR OF Phil Ammann OPERATIONS

EDITOR-AT-LARGE

Ryan Nicol Janelle Irwin Taylor

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Christy Jennings

CONTRIBUTORS

Rosanne Dunkelberger Brendan Farrington

A.G. Gancarski Ryan Nicol Jacob Ogles Jesse Scheckner Drew Wilson Alex Workman

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Allison Davis Colin Hackley Abby Hart Alex Workman

DIGITAL SERVICES Daniel Dean MANAGER

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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INFLUENCE Magazine is published quarterly by Florida Politics, LLC, a subsidiary of Extensive Enterprises Media, LLC. 204 37th Avenue North, St. Petersburg, Florida 33704. INFLUENCE Magazine and Extensive Enterprises Media are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or artwork. Editorial contributions are welcomed and encouraged, but will not be returned. INFLUENCE Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor. Copyright July 2025, Extensive Enterprises, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

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Celebrating 25 Years & Gearing up for Legislative Session

25 Years New Faces, New Building: Same Advocacy Excellence

Floridian Partners celebrates 25 years as a trusted name in Florida government affairs, and 2025 marks a new chapter in its storied history. With a newly renovated Tallahassee office and fresh faces on board, the firm continues to invest in the success of its premier client base.

“Our clients’ needs are constantly growing, and so are we.” – Managing Partner Charlie Dudley

Growing Team, Seasoned Leadership

As the 2025 legislative session approaches, Floridian Partners welcomes Director of Legislative and External Affairs Hunter Flack, a Florida Senate veteran, and Government Affairs Coordinator Ella Bevis, an alum of the James Madison Institute. The firm also proudly announces a strategic partnership with adviser Michael Cantens, principal at Miami-based Flagler Strategies.

The firm’s foundation remains strong under Managing Partner Charlie Dudley and Senior Partner Jorge Chamizo. Guiding its future are Partners George Feijoo, Melissa Ramba, and Toby Philpot, leading practices pillared on financial services, business regulation, and healthcare, respectively. Kelly O’Neal is the team’s backbone as Director of Operations, while Gary Guzzo, the team’s Dean, is its heart – providing trusted counsel to clients and policymakers alike.

“For years, Floridian Partners has been an extension of our team. Our membership relies on their collective strength and broad expertise to advance policy priorities.” – Brewster Bevis, CEO at Associated Industries of Florida

With a mix of seasoned professionals and fresh talent, the firm is well-equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the upcoming session.

Legacy & Innovation

Known as The Ritz Theatre in the 1930s, the Floridian Partners building underwent a transformation in 2024. In collaboration with Architects Lewis & Whitlock, the renovation added modern functionality while preserving the building’s historic charm. This duality is evident throughout the office, most strikingly in the cantilevered balcony that nods to the theatre’s original canopy.

“Floridian Partners has consistently delivered wins for us from day one. Their strategy and service are second to none, and this beautiful space raises the bar even higher.” – Javier Correoso, Head of Public Policy & Communications, US South at Uber

This blend of legacy and innovation mirrors the firm’s approach to advocacy—and retaining the Ritz name adds the touch of fun and glamour its clients have come to expect.

“We look forward to sharing the new space with our friends and colleagues in the process.” – Senior Partner Jorge Chamizo

92

The Golden Standard for Florida Lobbyists

Big state, big money, big opportunity, big risk, big egos — when all these are in play in The Process, Florida’s lobbyists are already running with the big dogs during Session. So when INFLUENCE names it’s top players every year, it’s a very big deal. Lobby firms and individuals are singled out for honors, but there are also categories for specific areas like in-house, health care, education and more. And a few oddballs have been added, like this year’s new Badass Lobbyist award.

71 Getting Personal with Mike and Danny

The Members Lounge is a new INFLUENCE feature — sponsored by The Advocacy Partners — designed to give readers a behind-the-curtain look at the lives and thoughts of Florida legislators. Rep. Mike Redondo and Sen. Danny Burgess answer getting-to-know-you questions posed by the lobbying firm in this inaugural effort.

78 The Budget Curveballs

A budget blowup and 100-plus-day Session wasn’t something most people saw coming, but here we are. From a tax break Valentine for NASCAR to funding a high-tech mapping of Florida, here are 10 surprising budget line items we’ve sussed out of the 2025-26 state budget.

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17 Florida Filmmaking

After ditching economic incentives for filmmakers to create in the Sunshine State, state officials and lawmakers are considering efforts to revive the industry. Also, a feature film made in Tallahassee on a bare-bones budget took top honors at the 2025 Cannes Film Awards.

31 Two Stories All About the Meat

Northeast Florida is lucky to have Joe Zimmerman. He multitasks as a consultant and School Board member and gives the area an authentic taste of Philadelphia with his “Philly Boyz” cheesesteak food trucks. Josh Cooper has a nationwide reputation for political strategy, but you’re most likely to see his face in the media when he’s winning cooking contests, including his most recent showing at the “Super Bowl of Swine” in Memphis.

44 A New Way to Stay

stayAPT, a new hotel chain, has arrived in Tallahassee. It brings a new way of doing business, offering the comfort and convenience of an apartment, just minutes from the Capitol.

154 What I’ve Learned

Rick Wilson — Republican apostate, Donald Trump eviscerater, and a founding father of The Lincoln Project — shares with INFLUENCE his journey from dirty dog GOP political operative to BFF to Democrats and true-blue conservatives.

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BOOKS

Assassins, secrets and corruption, oh my!

Add these political thrillers to your Summer reading list

By Allison Aubuchon

Real life may be stranger than fiction, but these political thrillers are close contenders and perfect for summer reading. Whether you’re decompressing post-Session or relaxing in your own backyard, consider picking up (or downloading or listening to) one of these suspenseful reads.

The House of Cross by James Patterson

I picked this one up from Midtown Reader in Tallahassee (they always have the best recommendations) and could not stop turning the pages. Those fascinated by the clue-gathering process will love

this one. A shadowy assassin is targeting top Supreme Court candidates in the run-up to a presidential inauguration. Detective Cross and his expert friends decode deadly clues and must race across the country to stop the next murder. With its short chapters and many twists, this thriller keeps you racing to the end.

The Day of the Jackal by Frederick Forsyth

Recommended by my husband and avid reader, Josh Aubuchon, The Day of the Jackal is set in 1960s Europe. This classic thriller, written more than 50 years ago, follows an

assassin hired to take out a world leader and the desperate manhunt to stop him before it’s too late. What makes this novel stand out is how Forsyth crafts a fictional plot that feels chillingly real. You’ll find yourself admiring the brilliance of the chase as the story unfolds. It was made into a popular movie in 1973 and a series remake from 2024 is now streaming on Peacock.

All the King’s Men by Robert Penn Warren

When I asked my dad, Thomas A. Fogt who lives in Stuart, for his favorite political thriller, this one was top of mind. Winner of

the Pulitzer Prize, All the King’s Men made an impression on Dad for its rich character development and deep exploration of morality in public life. Loosely based on real-life Louisiana governor Huey Long, the novel tracks the rise and fall of populist politician Willie Stark. It’s as much about personal corruption and redemption as it is about politics and how power transforms people.

The Bluegrass Conspiracy by Sally Denton

My friend Nathan Mick of Advocacy for the American Associa tion of Orthodontists, was another great source for book recommendations. He immediately suggested The Bluegrass Conspiracy: An Inside Story of Power, Greed, Drugs & Murder. This book offers exactly what the subtitle promises, along with political cover-ups that stretch across state lines. This nonfiction read is filled with twists involving law en forcement, organized crime, and even a Florida connection — true crime meets political intrigue at its most outrageous.

The Ghost by Robert Harris

Another Mick recommendation, The Ghost “highlights the deeper machinery of politics.” In this cerebral thriller, a ghost writer is hired to complete the memoirs of a recently retired British Prime Minister, only to uncover secrets that powerful people would kill to protect. Set against a backdrop of legacy battles, international alliances, and the politics of public trust, it’s a timely reminder of how narratives can be crafted and manipulated.

THRILLING FLORIDA AUTHORS TO KNOW

I asked the Florida House on Capitol Hill for some summer reading authors as well. Our state’s “embassy” in D.C., Florida House annually recognizes distinguished authors who embody the spirit of Florida through their themes, messaging, and subject mat ter. They recommend adding these thrilling writers with Florida ties to your list:

Brad Meltzer:

tinguished Author known for fast-paced thrillers set in Washington, D.C., Meltzer also writes inspiring children’s books about real-life American heroes.

Randy Wayne White: tinguished Author and a Tampa resident, White’s thrillers, including the and Hannah Smith Florida’s Gulf Coast and the undercurrents of local politics.

Michael Connelly: Also based in Tampa, Connelly’s bestselling Harry Bosch series (adapted for streaming) blends mystery with political tension, corruption, and justice.

John Grisham: Though based in Virginia, Grisham owns a home on Amelia Island and has set his Camino Island series in Florida. His novels lean legal, but the political

checking out novels by:

Stacey Abrams: In addition to her political career, Abrams writes legal thrillers under her nom de plume Selena Montgomery. With many books to choose from, she has written politically infused legal thrillers under her real name and comes recommended by the bookworms at Midtown Reader.

Louise Penny: The Inspector Gamache series by Penny is an award-winning mystery series that blends thoughtful character development and gripping detective work with political and moral undertones that deepen as the series progresses.

Power Players of Public Affairs

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Florida could be the star of Donald Trump’s film agenda — if lawmakers say ‘Action!’

By Jesse Scheckner

As President Donald Trump calls for bringing movie and television production back to the United States, film industry advocates and lawmakers are urging him to begin where the need and opportunity may be greatest: his home state of Florida.

Trump recently proposed a 100% tariff on films produced outside the U.S. — an idea he swiftly withdrew after backlash from Hollywood insiders and production unions.

While industry experts say the idea was likely unenforceable, the episode reignited national debate about how best to boost domestic production, starting with federal incentives and a possible return to state-level support in the Sunshine State.

Sandy Lighterman, President of Film Florida and Broward County Film Commissioner, called the conversation a net positive, spurring long-overdue policy talks. She and other industry leaders say a federally administered financial incentive program and a centralized national film office are key to leveling the playing field.

Other countries — including Australia, Canada, the U.K., and South Africa — offer tax rebates between 15% and 40% to attract productions. The U.S. has no such national program.

“A lot of the production has gone overseas because it’s at a better price point,” Lighterman said. “If you can replicate Florida in the south of France and have a better incentive, you’re going to

make it there. That’s where we’ve lost.”

A recent proposal backed by Trump allies — including movie stars Jon Voight and Sylvester Stallone, a fellow Floridian — outlined a federal framework that would offer a 10% tax credit to productions in states with existing incentive programs and a 20% credit in states without one, like Florida.

Their plan also calls for reinstating a 15% corporate tax rate on domestic productions, doubling deduction caps to $30 million, and reviving pandemic-era tax loss carrybacks.

The plan is attracting interest in Tallahassee, including from Rep. Dana Trabulsy, a Fort Pierce Republican who sponsored multiple bills to revive Florida’s defunct state program.

“It’s time to revisit the issue,” Trabulsy said.

Florida once had one of the nation’s most robust film incentive programs. The Entertainment Industry Financial Incentive Program, established in 2010, allocated $296 million over five years for tax credits to studios and production companies. It helped bring shows like “Ballers,” “Bloodline,” “Burn Notice,” and “The Glades” to the state. The total was modest compared to California’s annual spending, but the program generated more than $1.25

billion in Florida economic activity and created more than 100,000 jobs. Lawmakers nevertheless allowed it to expire in 2016 after declining to renew funding.

Since then, Florida lost major productions to neighboring states like Georgia, Louisiana and Texas, the latter of which approved a $1.5 billion media incentive package in May. Georgia, now a production powerhouse, hosts films and shows ostensibly set in Florida — including the movies “Gifted” and “Live by Night” and the

Top: Rep. Dana Trabulsy urges the House to pass a bill. Bottom: Bad Monkey premiered on August 14, 2024.

Netflix show “Cobra Kai”.

Florida is now the only Southeastern state without a statewide film incentive program.

“We’re not on a level playing field,” Lighterman said. “The winners are the ones that have an incentive. The losers are the ones that don’t.”

The consequences are tangible. Lighterman helped bring the Apple TV+ series “Bad Monkey,” based on Carl Hiaasen’s novel and starring Vince Vaughn, to Miami-Dade and Monroe counties. The first season received strong reviews and was renewed, but it won’t return to Florida.

“It was just so cost-prohibitive,” Lighterman said. “The Keys are extremely expensive. Just think about going there for a night — it’s like $500 for a motel. That’s what they ran up against.”

Because high costs and a lack of state incentives make Florida less attractive to producers, several counties have tried to fill the gap.

Miami-Dade, home to more than 200 production companies, expanded its program in December to offer up to $10 million in rebates for high-impact film and TV projects shot locally. Not long after, Miami director Michael Bay shot

a promotional video for FilMiami, the county’s entertainment office, urging policymakers to “keep this film industry nurtured here and bring it back.”

In Broward, Lighterman’s Film Lauderdale program has helped boost local production by 164%. But she said such county-level efforts are no match for what other states offer.

Repeated attempts to bring back a statewide program have failed in Tallahassee, where Trabulsy said some leaders have seen it as “corporate welfare.”

“I saw it as an investment to build revenue,” she said. “This created an impasse.”

Lighterman attributed part of that reluctance to Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has clashed with Disney and shown little interest in supporting the entertainment industry.

“That’s why it has not been the right atmosphere,” Lighterman said.

Still, Lighterman sees signs of change. Before this past Session, she spoke with legislative leaders, including House Speaker Daniel Perez, who she said is “open at least to conversation.”

“Trump wants more productions in the United States. This is his home state, and the Legislature supports his agenda.”

“Trump wants more productions in the United States. This is his home state, and the Legislature supports his agenda,” she said. “All this should open up the discussion.”

Trabulsy agreed, noting that Florida’s varied topography and array of locations afford production advantages which, when combined with financial enticements, make the state hard to resist.

That’s good for everyone, she said.

“I’m not sure everybody gets the big picture, no pun intended, that when we’re bringing films into our communities it’s not just about the film,” she said. “It’s economic impact, whether it’s catering companies, set and design

SANDY LIGHTERMAN

people, hotels, tourism — there’s so much more to it. And with a small investment, we could see some large gains that would help as we anticipate an economic shortfall in a few years.”

Trabulsy said she’s evaluating whether to file a new version of the incentives bill she last filed in 2023 with Sarasota Republican Sen. Joe Gruters

Meanwhile, Film Florida is preparing to move swiftly if the political winds shift.

“We have programs drafted — a multitude of different ones that we can combine,” Lighterman said. “When the time is right, we’re ready to go.”

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Breaking Down Walls

TALLAHASSEE-PRODUCED FEATURE FILM WINS AT CANNES

By Rosanne Dunkelberger

Think Cannes Film Festival and you have visions of movie stars step-and-repeating down the red carpet in gowns and tuxes and encrusted with diamonds.

Independent Screenwriter/Director and CEO at Multi Frame Films F.C. Rabbath made history at the international event when his seventh full-length film, “The Final Pact,” was named as Best Feature in the 2025 competition in June, despite a bare-bones production budget that came in at less than the cost of one of those haute couture gowns.

“We definitely didn’t expect it,” the 38-year-old said. “We didn’t expect to be nominated or win because it’s such a small production and we filmed it in 17 days.” Much of it was shot at the Ball House in Tallahassee’s Southwood development and, despite some otherworldly scenes, limited special effects were used in the movie.

The film’s producer, Mark Marple, said the film’s budget was “whatever my credit card could handle,” and ended up “south of $40,000.” Of the 10 films nominated in their category (it’s not same as the top-tier flicks) he said the next-lowest cost nominee came in at around $2.9 million.

Marple said the self-taught filmmaker deserves auteur status:

“This was done by sheer will and a lot of talent. To me, he’s the Alfred Hitchcock of Tallahassee.”

The movie’s plot involves three seminarians who are told by Father Michael (played by Marple) they must complete one final exam before entering the priesthood. While celebrating, they encounter a woman with car trouble, which leads to a devilish time for the trio.

Even though he has won at one of the world’s most prestigious film competitions, Rabbath is still working to get

the film seen by a wider audience. Another aspect of Cannes comes after glitz and glamour, when filmmakers travel to France to meet with distributors. Rabbath didn’t make it to the screenings and red-carpet events, but he will be there to see if he can get his production in theaters or streaming.

Distribution is not a done deal. And he’s been burned in the past.

“Some would argue the harder part of making a film is getting it sold to the right people,” he said. “Distributors — either you get a good one or you don’t. And the good ones are very rare. Even the good ones, you gotta be very careful because they’ll charge you a hundred dollars for a stapler … they give you hospital prices.”

The word “walls” often comes up in conversation with Rabbath in his career as film writer/director without a huge budget. He calls it the “indie curse.”

“Just maybe a week ago I tried to sell the film to someone and they emailed me back saying ‘Hey, that’s cool that you won there, but we’re looking for a name actor so get back to us when you have one’,” he recalled.

Rabbath has lived in Tallahassee since he moved here as a teenager. He didn’t go to film school, but honed his craft through the decades with multitudes of commercials, short films and feature-length movies. He considers himself more of a journeyman than an artiste, learning by doing. Rabbath has a knack for engineering and has five patents to his credit, including an intelligent traffic light and a heat-sensitive, color changing sticker to let one know if they’ve taken their medicine.

All of his films have been made in Florida, but incentives or grants are few and far between (wall). Georgia has a burgeoning industry, because it actively (and financially) encourages people to film there. So much so, Marple calls it “Hollywood 2.”

“What Marvel film is not shot in Atlanta?,” he wondered.

The good news is the main actors in Final Pact are based in Atlanta. “We had great talent and they did it for almost nothing,” he said. Marple also praised talented local university students who worked on the project, as well as six teens from Lincoln High School.

“The wall is not just in Florida; it’s everywhere,” Rabbath said.

And, unfortunately, much is driven by moviegoers, he said in a 2024 podcast.

“The majority get Spiderman 37

made. People only like what they know. Hollywood didn’t run out of ideas. Hollywood has the ideas. Hollywood ran out of balls,” he opined. “They don’t want to take risks anymore. If they know the next Spiderman is going to get a billion or two, they’re going to invest in that.”

But here’s Rabbath’s final word:

“This is an incredible honor, not just

for our team, but for the burgeoning filmmaking scene in our state. To have a film from Tallahassee achieve such a prestigious award on a global stage like the Cannes Film Awards is a profound testament to the unparalleled talent and unique storytelling capabilities that flourish here.”

WANT A Sneak PEEK?

Multi Frame Films is hosting a screening of

“The Final Pact” at the IMAX Challenger Learning Center, located in Downtown Tallahassee, on July 12 at 6 p.m.

Tickets are $20 and available only through  ticketsource, not at the box office.

Scenes from The Final Pact, which won a coveted award at the Cannes Film Festival

Can tennis and pickleball coexist? This tennis lobbyist thinks so.  GEAR

By Brendan Farrington

t’s hotly contested in online forums for The Villages. It’s turned condo dwellers against each other. And it’s the subject of lawsuits. It’s tennis vs. pickleball.

Who can settle such a divisive issue? We turned to The Southern Group lobbyist Chris Dudley.

Full disclosure: Dudley has served as an advisor to the United States Tennis Association and was involved in bringing the USTA’s national campus to central Florida.

While that could tip the scales in favor of tennis, it turns out his teenage sons don’t play the sport, but do love pickleball, so that tips the scales back the other way.

So his recommendation?

“Do both,” he said.

Dudley, 53, didn’t start playing tennis until he was about 40, but took to it quickly and has become a regular player.

“It was just time to get out and do something,” he said. “It’s a very mental game, which I love about it. The skill set matters. You can’t really do much else while you’re out there playing except think about tennis. There’s no partners, there’s no team. You’re kind of on your own. I kind of like that.”

He, his 13- and 15-year-old sons and wife Suzanne like to be active together as a family, but the boys just aren’t into tennis. So, Dudley has also become a pickleball fan, so much so he set up a court at home.

“It’s the one thing we can do as a family, all four of us,” Dudley said. “Pickleball is a blast. The reason it’s the fastest (growing) sport in the country is everybody can play. All age levels, all skill levels — you’re literally kind of hitting a wiffle ball back and forth over the net. It’s addicting. It’s very fun.”

There are obvious differences between the sports.

• A tennis ball served by a pro comes off the racket at more than 100 mph, while a pickleball hit by an amateur tends to come across the net at 20 to 45 mph.

• It’s harder to set up a tennis court at home, while pickleball nets are available for less than $100 and you can always

mark a court with tape.

• Tennis is more fun when you compete with someone closest to your skill level, while anyone can easily pick up pickleball and have fun with more experienced players.

While tennis is best played one-onone, Dudley will often rent a pickleball court and invite a group out. Games are quick and are played in pairs, so players rotate on and off the court, get a bit of exercise and enjoy a social afternoon. And as a bonus, some indoor facilities also have food and adult beverages.

“It’s hard to drink while you play tennis. It does not mix,” Dudley quipped.

Like Dudley, the USTA’s official stance is that you don’t have to choose one sport over the other. The organization has a webpage dedicated to the case for mutual existence.

“Tennis and Pickleball: It doesn’t have to be a battle,” the site says. “Let’s work together using the resources available to help both tennis and pickleball grow in our community in ways that are mutually beneficial both for today and for long-term growth and development.”

Avid tennis player Chris Dudley works on his backhand.

Cheesesteak Diplomacy

“My mom … was a police officer, so was my grandfather, so was my great grandfather. They were all in Philadelphia,” he explained. “I naturally thought I was gonna follow in the family business.”

is all of the above andthentic cheesesteak sandwiches, and aing business that counsels candidates and other entities, mostly in his small-county

The extended family decamped from Philly to New Port Richey when the now-39-year-old was in high school and he focused on studying criminal justice at Pasco Hernando Community College.

Zimmerman’s first foray into the political scene was not part of a grand plan, more of a fluke.

Just one class shy of his Associate’s degree and disinclined to go back to school, he started applying for in-

ternships in 2012 — and his first bite was a call from the office of Congressman Gus Bilirakis. His six-month stint as a district intern came with a wide variety of tasks, but Zimmerman boils it down to, “I was just a coffee boy, basically.”

You may be thinking, “Hey, this is a food story, when do we get to the cheesesteaks?” Right now, although politics is still part of his tale.

He moved to Fernandina Beach to work with his brother, who owned a brick-and-mortar cheesesteak restaurant called Philly Boyz. It was located downtown right behind The Palace Saloon, which prides itself on being Florida’s old-

est bar. The restaurant would deliver to the patrons in the bar and stay open after last call for hungry barflies who wanted to keep the party going.

The original location closed, but Zimmerman revived the Philly Boyz franchise in 2021, not as a restaurant, but a food truck — they’re now up to three rolling restaurants and plans are in the works to add more. While they can pop up anywhere, the trucks are based in Fernandina Beach/Amelia Island, South Georgia/Camden County and another serving Callahan, western Nassau County and northern Duval County.

The trucks generally run Thursday through Saturday, to regular locations listed on the business’ website, phillyboyzsteaks.com. Patrons of The Palace can again get their cheesesteak on into the wee hours because the Philly Boyz truck has a standing stop there every Friday night. “We open at 7 o’clock at night and we’re there ’til 2 o’clock in the morning,” he said. “The biggest advantage of a mobile food dispensing vehicle — which

“Once you’ve had our cheesesteak, you can’t eat them anywhere else.”

is technically what they are called — is opportunity. Food trucks can be where it’s busy when it’s busy.”

Now let’s talk about those as-authentic-as-it-gets Philly cheesesteaks, about which Zimmerman brags, “once you’ve had our cheesesteak, you can’t eat them anywhere else.”

For starters, he uses ingredients imported from in and around his hometown: 12-inch(ish) hearth-baked rolls from Amoroso’s, boardwalk-style fries from the Jersey Shore Fry Company (“A nice, very crisp coating on the outside, but almost soft and gooey on the inside,” is how he describes them) and a variety of Hank’s sodas from the birthplace of Root Beer that also are served as ice cream floats.

You know how every mom makes

meatloaf or spaghetti sauce differently? Philly Boyz is like that, with its subs based on Zimmerman’s family recipe. Each sub includes ribeye steak, semi-frozen and shaved 4 millimeters thick, cooked on a 225-degree grill and spatula-shredded. Original Phillys had no cheese, but Zimmerman said provolone cheese and caramelized onion were added in the 1940s. In addition to the provolone, the Boyz also offer Philadelphia-made Cooper Sharp white American cheese, melted (“It’s almost got a little bit of a cheddar cheese edge to it.”), and Cheeze Whiz (“It’s popular in South Philly.”)

As prices for steak continue to increase, Zimmerman says he won’t compromise quality or quantity. He insists on the marbled ribeye rather than a cheaper cut and a full pound of meat

Political consultant Joe Zimmerman poses with his wife, Jennifer, in front of one of three Philly Boyz food trucks where, in addition to cooking up a mean Philly cheesesteak, he also engages in what he calls “cheesesteak diplomacy.”

for each sandwich. The price for each sub has risen over the years and is now $16.75, which, he would remind you, is about the same as you’d pay for a footlong at Jersey Mike’s.

“I’ve thought about messing with my portion sizes to make the price a little more affordable, but at this point I feel like that’s shrinkflation,” he said. “People have an expectation that it’s going to be a certain size, and all of a sudden it’s this big instead of that big, they’re gonna complain, right? So rather than make the sandwiches smaller, I’ve just adjusted the price over time.”

“You know you’ll eat for two days on it … it’s a big sandwich,” he added.

The Boyz serve up nine different versions of cheesesteaks, with five that include chicken. Joe’s Choice features chicken, bacon, three cheeses and ranch dressing. There’s even a sub wrapped in

a tortilla and deep fried.

And now, here’s the story of the intersection between cheesesteaks and politics.

When Zimmerman was contemplating his move to Jacksonville, he needed another job, since the restaurant work

was only part time. Checking out the classifieds in the Fernandina Beach newspaper — the old school method of job hunting — he saw that state Rep. Janet Adkins was hiring district staff.

“I rolled my last pennies for gas to get to the interview and drove up from Tampa,” he recalled.

He got the job and worked for her for two and a half years as a Constituent Liaison, providing constituent services

in the district office as well as planning events, liaising with local government, drafting white papers and tracking bills during Session. Adkins is now Supervisor of Elections in Nassau County.

Zimmerman would spend three years after that as an Executive Aide to the Jacksonville City Council.

Early on in his time with Adkins, another Legislative Aide introduced him to a Jacksonville City Councilman, who was seeking a “techie” to help on his campaign. Since Zimmerman had some IT experience, it was a great fit. The campaign was a success and the Councilman tapped him again, this time to manage his reelection campaign. Again, it was a win.

He would go on to — he calls it “help out” — in smaller races, mostly in Nassau County.

One memorable campaign was an Ocean, Highway & Port Authority

race where his candidate had a very limited budget.

“To run for Port Authority, you have to get 25 signatures or pay a $25 filing fee … they pay $24,000 a year,” he said. The incumbent spent $15,000. We ran $140 in targeted ads and won by 300 votes.”

Along the way, he opened his consultancy, The Zimmerman Group, in 2015, which now offers tech-focused strategies to political campaigns and ballot initiatives, as well as nonprofits.

In November 2024, Zimmerman’s food and political worlds really collided after Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed him to the District 3 seat on the Nassau County School Board, to replace Curtis Gaus, who had resigned to run for Superintendent.

When constituents find him on the food truck, it’s a less intimidating opportunity to speak informally in what Zimmerman has dubbed “Cheesesteak Diplomacy.”

“Somebody comes to the boardroom to talk about an issue they’re having and they’ve got three minutes to talk. Same thing if I set up coffee with a parent who’s having a problem with a student or a school or whatever,” he said. “But if

they come up to the window in the food truck and I’m standing there in a baseball hat with spatulas in my hand, I say, ‘Hey, you take over,’ and I can step off and sit down and talk with them.”

Zimmerman is married to his high school sweetheart, “my sweetie,  Jennifer,” and has a direct connection to the school system. His son attends Yulee High School. His older daughter just finished her freshman year at the University of Central Florida.

He describes his dual roles this way:

yumm!

“It is a culture shock. This week was graduation, so I went down to the University of North Florida, where they had high school graduation. I was suited up and went to the graduation and then I went home and I put on a T-shirt and shorts and I went and I cooked ’till 2 o’clock in the morning on the food truck and then I brought it home and was back in the graduation suit at 9 a.m. the next day. It’s kind of like stepping into the telephone booth and changing from Clark Kent into Superman.”

Your dedicated advocacy for our members, residents, and families ensures Florida remains the Gold Standard in long term care. Thank you,

THE SUPER BOWL OF SWINE

Josh Cooper’s Swinos run with the big pigs at Memphis in BBQ showdown.

By Rosanne Dunkelberger

JoshCooper’s position as a Tallahassee-based political consultant brings home the bacon, but his overall thirdplace finish at the 47th World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest — better known as Memphis in May — is what had him hootin’, hollerin’, braggin’, and draggin’ home a monstrous (and heavy) trophy this Spring.

His team has won several competitions over the years and he was a contestant on Season 8 of Gordon Ramsay’s Master Chef contest for home cooks. But this latest accolade tops them all.

“It is the Super Bowl of Swine, because it focuses just on pork,” Cooper said. He’s been affiliated with the Swinos since 2007 “and I’ve been the head chef since 2017 and we had never even gotten a Top 3 in ribs. It’s a very big deal to do that and it’s only going to get better from here.”

The competition is large — 150 teams signed up — and the difference between winning and also-ran is prac-

tically infinitesimal. The Swinos’ thirdplace showing with 1,025.28 points was a mere 7/100ths of a point less than the winner, barbecue legend Heath Riles.

While the final showdown was held May 17, prep began two weeks earlier when Cooper trailered his 22-foot-long Jambo smoker to a friend’s house in Memphis. Jambos are like Birkin bags — top-flight, expensive, with a waiting list.

“My wife got the ring and I got the Jambo,” Cooper quipped. “That was my wedding present.”

The aforementioned wife is  Gannon Hunt Cooper, who also is his barbecuing teammate and business partner. Rounding out the five-member Swinos team is another participant in The Process, D.C.-based pollster  David Lee, along with  Vincent and  Joyce Regino, a husband-wife team from San Antonio who added another layer of flavor to the ribs with their REGI-Q BBQ rubs.

At Memphis in May, there also were two days of preliminary contests, with

a plethora of things on the grill — beef, seafood, poultry and the mysteriously named “exotic” category. The team’s beef brisket burnt ends and crab cakes scored well, to help boost the team’s overall score.

Contest day began at 2:30 a.m., firing up the “stick burner” and prepping the 16 racks of baby back ribs (the curved ones, as opposed to the flat spare ribs) they’d be cooking during the day. The initial judging is done by placing six sets of ribs with two bones each, “so they could pull it apart and see how tender it was” in blind boxes for the judges, so they don’t know which team’s ribs they’re judging. There’s a second round, where a trio of judges visits each team’s booth for a taste test and a look at their presentation.

“We have to watch them eat it and try to gauge what’s happening. A lot of them have really good poker faces.

“We started to make a name for ourselves, but the reality is the judges

go into the booths of the real famous people that have been on TV shows and … they know who they are right away,” Cooper continues. “We’re kind of at a disadvantage to a Heath Riles or a  Big Bob Gibson or  Myron Mixon, so we have to make it up by cooking really good ribs. And we did.”

Good enough ribs to make the finals.

“At that point, you know you’re in the Top 3. You can’t do any worse. You know you’re gonna get a big trophy,” he says.

After another round of judging, the winners were announced.

“We go to the awards and, my gosh, we have a chance to be the champion against the greatest rib cook of all time, Heath Riles,” Cooper recalled. “We came up one point short. So next year we’re going back to try to win the whole thing, but it was a dream come true.”

BBQ

Like a Champion

World champion pitmasters aren’t born, they go through a trial by fire(s). But Josh Cooper has a few tips to share that’ll take you from burned burgers to fall-of-the-bone ribs in no time.

“Smoking anything … the secret is keeping a constant temperature. First, you’ve got to figure out how to work your fire,” he said. “Once you know how to work your fire so that you keep a good 275-degree temperature constantly throughout the cook, you can learn how to cook like a champion.”

Once you’ve got the heat right, Cooper says the smoking is as simple as 3-2-1: Three hours on the smoke. Two hours with the meat wrapped in foil along with some apple juice. And a final unwrapped hour with barbecue sauce added near the end.

Rubs and sauces can make a huge difference in flavor. Cooper has developed a private-label tomato-based Pow-Pow Sauce and is a huge fan of Regi-Qs rubs. Both can be mail ordered through his website, www.thenextlevelbbq.com.

You could be a champion, maybe not of the world, but king of the culde-sac is a definite possibility.

SUMMERTIME SIDES

Man does not live by steak — or brisket or ribs or Boston butts or chicken — alone. So Pitmaster Josh Cooper gathered up his favorite recipes for an appearance on Fox News Digital featuring simple side dishes that will round out the meal at your next barbecue, including this simple Watermelon Salad he guarantees will “change your life forever”

Just grab some fresh watermelon cubes — make them seedless — and add chopped red onions, feta cheese, fresh mint cut into little ribbons and aged balsamic vinegar to “bring it all together,” he said. “It’s delicious, fresh and goes great with barbecue.”

While times, temps and ingredients are carefully monitored during his barbecue competitions, his sides are more of a “wing it” operation.

For Stuffed Mushrooms — a perfect accoutrement to any steak, Cooper adds — fill mushroom caps with a mix of panko bread crumbs, parmesan cheese and minced garlic. Top with more parm, and brush the whole thing with olive oil and grill.

Steak and a baked spud are a match made in culinary heaven, but try Hasselback Potatoes if you want to up your tater game. Cooper suggests using Yukon gold potatoes. Make small slices across the top, without cutting through the potato (a chopstick on each side of the potato can keep that from happening.) Mix up some chopped rosemary and thyme with olive oil and “paint” the potato. Put them on a 425-degree grill for 45 minutes, take them off and brush them again, then grill for another 15 minutes.

For a south-of-the-border twist, grill some Mexican Street Corn. Keep the kernels on the cob and make some nice char marks. Mix Cotija cheese, mayonnaise, Mexican crema, lime juice, salt and pepper and slather it on each ear. Top them with fresh cilantro to “get a little green on there,” Cooper advises.

The summer bounty of tomatoes serves as the base of a delightful Bruschetta. Chop them up and mix with chopped basil, chef’s choice of herbs and spices, olive oil, and salt and pepper. Serve on grilled slices of skinny French bread. Add some mozzarella cheese and you’ve got caprese!

Red Dog Blue Dog

Florida’s political establishment swapped policy debates for drink orders at the 10th annual Red Dog Blue Dog fundraiser, transforming Tallahassee’s Township bar into the Florida Legislature’s most spirited competition. The milestone event raised nearly $50,000 for local animal shelters while proving that bipartisan cooperation flows freely when the cause is right. The evening’s friendly rivalry between Team Red and Team Blue brought out the competitive spirit in Florida’s lawmakers, who discovered that constituent service takes many forms – including mastering cocktail recipes and keeping tip jars full. Republicans claimed victory with a narrow $2,170 edge, though organizers emphasized that the true winners were the four-legged beneficiaries. Now a decade strong, Red Dog Blue Dog has evolved from a novel fundraising concept into a must-attend Capitol tradition. The event’s success stems from its simple formula: combine Florida’s political leaders with a worthy cause, add generous supporters, and watch bipartisanship flourish.

This year’s attendance of hundreds demonstrated the event’s growing influence in Tallahassee’s social and charitable circles. The Animal Shelter Foundation, Leon County Humane Society, and Last Hope Rescue will benefit from the funds raised, supporting pet adoptions, reunification efforts, and responsible ownership programs throughout North Florida. Major sponsors, including presenting sponsor Lisa Miller & Associates, bar sponsor Rubin Turnbull, along with McGuireWoods Consulting, TECO, On3PR, Anheuser-Busch, and Moffitt Cancer Center, helped ensure another successful year.

1. Rep. Hillary Cassel pauses service to take a selfie. 2. Sen. Jason Pizzo helping Blue Team guests decide what to order. 3. Rep. Lindsay Cross steps away from the bar to join House of Rock for a song. 4. Sen. Alexis Calatayud serving guests behind the bar for the Red Team. 5. Rep. Cassel takes a shotski with Red Team supporters. 6. Reps. Cross and Christine Hunschofsky taking drink orders for the Blue Team.

FAMU’s ‘Foodie Frolic’ a delicious success

In2023, Senate President Kathleen Passidomo (R-Naples) and Dean of the Senate Travis Hutson (R-St. Augustine) started a program entitled the “Senate Foodie Fête.” The program coincided with legislation that furthers ongoing initiatives to promote career and technical education. The legislation (signed into law in 2023) focuses on work-based learning linked to local employment opportunities. What better way to highlight this important initiative than to offer work-based learning opportunities for talented culinary students across the state.

Over the last three years, Senators have enjoyed a magnificent array of exquisite international cuisine and the occasional hand-crafted cocktail from students enrolled in the Culinary Arts Program at Keiser University, the Professional Culinary Arts & Hospitality Program at Lively Technical College, the Dedman School of Hospitality at Florida State University, the UCF – Rosen College of Hospitality Management, the FAMU Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit Research and the Liberty County High School.

The events provide a time of fun, food, and fellowship for the Senators as students learn dining room management, develop their command of classic, contemporary and international cuisines, and practice budgeting, purchasing, inventory management, and other skills needed to plan and execute elegant dining events.

In the spirit of President Albritton’s Heartland roots, for 2025 the Senate rebranded the Foodie Fête as the Foodie Frolic!

The Foodie Frolic Finale was hosted on Wednesday, April 16 by FAMU’s Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit Research.

1. Sen. Corey Simon delivers opening remarks at the Foodie Frolic at the newly enclosed Senate Portico on the ground level of the Senate Office Building in Tallahassee. The space is available for events through reservations, sponsored by Senators.  2. Additional appetizers included tender flank steak from FAMU beef cattle, hand-carved and finished with a blend of fresh herbs and spices, catfish strips lightly breaded, served with house remoulade, roasted Heirloom fingerling potatoes, roasted with sea salt and fresh rosemary.  3 and 4. Sens. Alexis Calatayud, Ana Maria Rodriguez, and Lori Berman peruse an abundant spread of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruit, olives, and gourmet crackers as well as local honey from FAMU’s farm in Northwest Florida. 5. The Center is the only specialized research program among the 1890 colleges and universities dedicated to grapes and wine, and it is a national leader in muscadine grape research. 6. Capitalizing on the close industry-clientele partnership, their economically feasible and accelerated breeding pipeline has resulted in the release of

three newly patented American native grape cultivars: "Floriana," "Florida Onyx" and "Blanc du Soleil," in the last two years. 7. The Florida Legislature established the FAMU Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit Research in 1978. The Center is recognized internationally for excellence in warm climate grape research and facilitates academic programs for experiential learning and student training. 8. Senators sampled tangy lemon custard atop a buttery shortbread crust. The ants on top were a surprise garnish. Non-alcoholic refreshers called “Aqua Muscadinia” were also available. 9. Senators had the opportunity to sample an assortment of wines produced with FAMU grapes, as well as a series of “Muscadine Delights” – small plate samples infused with the sweet essence of muscadine grapes. Senate Rules Chair Kathleen Passidomo, and Jamal Sowell, USMC, FAMU’s Vice President of Government Relations.  10.  Senate President Ben Albritton greets FAMU trustees and other dignitaries. 11. Sens. Nick DiCeglie, Barbara Sharief, and Danny Burgess.

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A SHARPER AIM

Arrow Group Writing a Bold New Chapter in Advocacy

Arrow Group may be a recent addition to Florida’s government affairs scene, but its leadership includes some of the state’s most seasoned policy professionals. Officially launched in January 2025, this Gunster subsidiary emerged from the strategic partnership between the law firm of Gunster and Anfield Consulting, bringing together decades of high-level experience and an enviable network of relationships across all levels of Florida government.

The firm—rooted in a culture of trust, collaboration, and civic engagement—seeks to bridge public and private interests through long-term partnerships and purpose-driven outcomes, positioning itself as a rising player in Florida’s government affairs arena.

PROVEN LEADERSHIP WITH UNMATCHED CONNECTIONS

Albert Balido, former head of Anfield Consulting, leads Arrow Group as president and senior advisor, bringing more than three decades of advocacy experience. Since 2002, he has tackled some of Florida’s most contentious legal issues on behalf of consumers and navigated complex health care industry challenges, including managed care and professional practice scope issues. His six years as Florida House staff gave him direct involvement in developing public policy across health care, children and families, local government, and budget issues.

“I like the challenge of ‘It can’t be done.’ That’s highly motivating for me,” Balido said. “Creativity is our number one asset. There’s always a creative solution to show movement for the client or show resolutions for their issues.”

Joining Balido is Vice President and Senior Advisor Ron Brisé, whose unique career spans entrepreneur,

policy maker, and lobbyist. As a former state legislator and former chair of the Florida Public Service Commission, Brisé brings invaluable institutional knowledge and an extensive network throughout state government.

“There is nowhere in state government in Florida that we don’t have a real connection—where we can make one phone call and have a legitimate yes or no,” Brisé said. “You can provide almost instant clarity for a client, which then tells them what we need to do to turn that ‘no’ into a ‘yes.’”

The team also includes notable experts like Rosanna Catalano, former Executive Director of the Florida Elections Commission; Trey Price, former head of the Florida Housing Finance Corporation; Alexandria Kernan, former Legislative Affairs Director at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection; and Kim Shugar, environmental policy expert focused on water and land conservation.

STRATEGIC EXPERTISE ACROSS ALL REGULATED INDUSTRIES

Arrow Group serves clients across energy and utilities, health care, land use, transportation, environmental issues, water, banking and finance, and telecommunications. Their mission centers on being an innovative, relationship-rich alternative that leverages deep subject matter expertise across all levels of government.

The group’s approach emphasizes integrity and problem-solving for the broader good, not just individual client interests. This philosophy— combined with Arrow Group’s experience and wide-reaching network of relationships—is helping the firm steadily establish itself as a distinctive voice in Florida’s advocacy landscape, delivering results for both clients and Florida’s communities.

A New Kind of Hotel

stayAPT Suites expands in Florida with a convenient location near the Capitol

If you’re still debating the pros and cons of hotel versus Airbnb for Session and committee weeks in Tallahassee, Marsha Shalley would like to add a new and different possibility into the mix.

She’s Florida’s Regional Director of Sales for stayAPT Suites, a new sort of

extended stay hotel that offers the best of both worlds — reasonable prices combined with apartment-style living.

“From a sales standpoint we’re able to keep our rates down because we are an independent brand. We don’t have that national recognition,” she explains. “And we don’t have the loyalty points and all of those other things you pay when you stay.”

By Rosanne Dunkelberger

She’s talking about parking, resort fees, and whatever additional charges vacation rental sites cook up.

The company might be onto something. The independent franchise has only been around since 2021 and is on its way to opening its 50th property. Tallahassee’s hotel is the third in Florida, with others located in Ocala and Pensacola.

In Tallahassee, each of the 62-rooms is a well-appointed 500+-square-foot suite with a kitchen area featuring fullsized appliances, separate living and sleeping areas and two sizeable televisions. General room rates run about $139 a night, but drop to $99 if you stay 30 days or longer. As per usual, all bets on low prices are off on football and graduation weekends.

The pitch is all appealing, but stayAPT’s three biggest selling points are location, location, and location. With its Apalachee Parkway view, the hotel is one mile away from the Capitol — a four-minute drive and 18-minute walk. (Sorry, can’t do anything about the pretty decent uphill hike if you’re hoofing it.)

All the rooms open to a contained courtyard, and the property is secure — only those with room keys have access to the interior. Pets are welcome with a $25 daily fee, and only up to $100 for longer stays.

There is a downside, aside from the odd name that is pronounced “stay A-P-T.” Or, just for grins, you could quote the hit song by K-pop superstar  Rosé and  Bruno Mars and call it “ah-pa-tay.”

To keep rates low the staff is minimal; the front desk is only open during daytime hours. Late check-ins are handled via lockboxes in the lobby. You can check in via stayAPT’s app, which also can turn your phone into your room key.

There’s no swimming pool, although there is a very nice patio area with comfortable seating as well as a gas firepit and a grill. A full room

PHOTOS:

“I prefer this because, since it’s like an apartment, but because it’s a hotel, every week they would clean my room so I could relax.”

cleaning happens just once a week, but guests can always ask for extra towels and toiletries any time.

And, sorry, there’s no breakfast.

But  Derrick Seldon, who relocated from his home base in Atlanta to serve temporarily as Tallahassee’s inaugural general manager, sees the breakfast thing as a plus, rather than a minus.

“When I’m checking guests in, they ask about the breakfast. I let them know we have something better than breakfast — we have a full kitchen. You’re able to cook your own,” he explains, without the ‘what’s-on-the-hot-line-today’ guessing games.

The hotel opened March 1, just four days before the 2025 Session. After seeing an email pitch from Shalley, Nedgine Saint-Louis decided to book a suite at stayAPT for the two months of Session.

She’s the Legislative Aide to Rep. Marie Woodson, whose HD 105 includes

parts of southern Broward County. It takes about seven hours for Saint-Louis to drive to her South Florida home, so she needed a place to “hunker down and stay” for the (what she thought would be) 60-day Session.

During a previous Session and committee weeks, she stayed at hotels and at an Airbnb. But now she’s found her niche at stayAPT.

“I prefer this because, since it’s like an apartment, but because it’s a hotel, every week they would clean my room so I could relax,” after long hours at the Capitol, Saint-Louis said. “At the Airbnb basically that’s all on you. You take out the trash, clean the sheets. It’s just less. And my parking spot for work is five minutes from here.”

She was actually the sixth guest who checked in with Seldon at the beginning of Session — they’re on a first-name basis now —  and she’s discovered that he

can anticipate what a working person might need during their stay.

He settled her in a room on the top of three floors and accommodated her request to return to that room during the post-Session budget conferences.

Saint-Louis plans to make stayAPT Suites her home away from home in the future,

“Hopefully it doesn’t get too popular,” she said. “As we get dates, I’ll email them right away to make sure I have a room.”

While Session helped the Tallahassee location open “like gangbusters,” Salley said its business model relies on long-stay patrons. They’ve already hosted construction crews, contractors for state agencies and FEMA employees, among others.

While she’s been in the hotel business for years, Shalley’s name also might ring a few bells in The Process. Her husband is Scott Shalley, President and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation.

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EDGE Communications adds Nathanael Mayette, Elias Romanos to boost reach and impact

EDGE Communications has brought on Elias Romanos, who joins as Senior Director of Public Affairs & Campaign Management, and  Nathanael Mayette, who steps into the role of Campaign & Outreach Coordinator.

With deep experience in electoral politics, community engagement and public service, both Romanos and Mayette bring fresh insight and proven skill to EDGE’s mission of delivering winning results for candidates, causes and communities across Florida.

“As EDGE continues to expand our reach and impact, I am proud to welcome Elias and Nathanael to our team,” said EDGE Communications founder and CEO  Christian Ulvert. “Elias’s strategic leadership on national policy initiatives and campaigns, combined with Nathanael’s grassroots energy and community-centered approach, will help us deepen our work in both public affairs and electoral strategy. Their contributions to our team will ensure EDGE and our clients remain at the

forefront of change-making across Miami-Dade and beyond.”

Romanos brings more than a decade of experience across the federal government, electoral campaigns and strategic communications as a seasoned public affairs and campaign consultant.

He previously served at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, where he led engagement strategies for more than $50 billion in Inflation Reduction Act programs focused on climate resilience, clean energy and environmental justice. Romanos also served at the U.S. Department of Education, where he advised leadership on access to community college, correctional education and student support services.

Romanos cut his teeth in politics working on campaigns, including as Regional Field Director for former President  Joe Biden’s 2020 campaign in Arizona and Field Director for  Ghazala Hashmi’s historic 2019 Virginia state Senate campaign.

Born in Naples and raised in Haiti,

Mayette places service and community at the root of both his professional and personal life. After moving to Immokalee following the 2010 Haiti earthquake, he pursued his ongoing education, ultimately graduating magna cum laude from Florida International University with a degree in political science.

After graduation and determined to help others, Mayette entered the advocacy realm, supporting Miami’s homeless population before transitioning to political work.

Mayette began as an intern at EDGE, but quickly advanced through outreach and campaign roles, helping coordinate efforts for major races including those of Mayor  Daniella Levine Cava, state Rep.  Ashley Gantt, School Board member Luisa Santos and Palm Beach County State Attorney Alexcia Cox

In his new role, Mayette continues to strengthen voter engagement and community outreach across Miami-Dade County.

BFR Briefings from the Rotunda

Laura Streed elevated at AARP Florida after Dionne Polite retires

AARP Florida has promoted Laura Streed to Director of Outreach and Engagement, following the retirement of predecessor Dionne Polite after a distinguished career leading AARP’s Florida outreach and engagement team.

Streed began in her new role in early June after serving as AARP’s Senior Associate State Director for Advocacy and Livable Communities.

In that role, Streed led efforts on hous-

ing, transportation, and local advocacy.

In her new position, Streed brings nearly two decades of experience with AARP, including eight in Tallahassee representing the organization on a range of legislative issues from health care to consumer protection to transportation and housing.

Streed represents AARP Florida on the Florida Department of Health’s State Health Improvement Priority Area Workgroup for Alzheimer’s Disease and

Related Dementia and previously served on the Florida Transportation Plan and Strategic Intermodal System Plan Steering Committee, as well as on the board for the Florida Council on Aging. Since 2013, she has worked from the AARP Florida headquarters in St. Petersburg.

“Laura has been a steady and passionate leader for AARP Florida and brings a wealth of knowledge, strategic vision, and deep commitment to serving the 50-plus community,” AARP State Director Jeff Johnson said. “Her expertise in state and local advocacy, livable communities, and public policy, as well as her ability to foster strong partnerships between AARP volunteers, local government leaders, and grassroots community groups, makes her the ideal person to lead our outreach efforts into the future.”

Streed earned a Master of Science in Aging Studies from Florida State University and has served on several statewide health and aging committees. She is a graduate of Leadership Florida’s Connect Class VII.

BFR Briefings from the Rotunda

Emily Colón brings local government insight to The Southern Group

Emily Colón is joining The Southern Group’s Orlando office, bringing with her more than a decade of municipal leadership, operational excellence, and policy implementation experience to the firm’s local government practice.

Colón most recently served as Deputy City Manager for the City of Lakeland, where she oversaw critical departments such as public works, water utilities, and community and economic development. She also led the city’s Office of Innovation and Strategy and served as the primary liaison to the Legislature, managing Lakeland’s legislative agenda and strategic policy initiatives.

“Emily Colón is an outstanding public administrator whose dedication to serving others has been evident throughout her career. Her exceptional leadership and expertise in local government have earned her widespread respect across the State of Florida, particularly within the city management profession. Emily’s ability to communicate effectively and navigate complex challenges has made a lasting impact on the City of Lakeland,” Lakeland City Manager  Shawn Sherrouse said.

“Now, as she transitions into a consulting role, other local governments will have the opportunity to benefit from her vast knowledge and strategic insights. Emily’s unwavering commitment to public service is truly commendable, and I am pleased that she will continue to contribute to the profession she has so passionately dedicated herself to.”

Colón began her career in public service as an intern in the office of thenU.S. Sen.  Marco Rubio and as a Gubernatorial Fellow under former Florida Gov. Rick Scott

She advanced in the local govern-

ment sector in Pasco County, where she held a variety of leadership roles including Budget Manager, Purchasing Director, and Program Administrator. During her tenure, she led the implementation of a $241 million general obligation bond program and spearheaded major countywide planning and performance initiatives.

“Emily’s career is a masterclass in operational excellence and innovative governance,” said  Rachel Cone, Senior Managing Partner at The Southern Group. “Her insight into Florida’s municipal landscape and her deep relationships across government make her a valuable asset to our clients in Central Florida and beyond.”

Colón holds a master’s degree in public administration and a bachelor’s in international business from the University of South Florida. She is an ICMA Credentialed Manager and a Certified Public Manager and continues to shape the field as an adjunct professor and thought leader on local government innovation.

“I’m thrilled to join The Southern Group and continue my work in public service from a new vantage point,” Colón said. “This is an exciting opportunity to help businesses and communities solve problems, seize opportunities, and successfully navigate governments at every level.”

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Briefings from the Rotunda

INGAGE adds Helen Roldan to launch new public affairs division

Marketing and communications firm INGAGE Biz is expanding its footprint with the launch of a new Public Affairs division, naming Helen Roldan as Senior Director to lead the effort.

The firm, which operates in the legal, real estate, government and education sectors, says the move reflects rising demand for integrated campaigns that span communications, policy and public engagement across Florida.

Roldan will be responsible for setting the strategic direction of the new division while bridging efforts between INGAGE’s public relations and digital marketing teams. The firm says her experience navigating complex policy environments and mobilizing public support will be central to delivering client wins.

“Helen’s experience at the intersection of local government, communications and grassroots engagement makes

her an ideal fit for INGAGE,” said  Katherine Doble, INGAGE founder and President. “As we grow our Public Affairs division to support clients facing increasingly complex public challenges, Helen brings the strategic insight and leadership to guide bold, forward-thinking campaigns that drive meaningful results.”

Before joining INGAGE, Roldan led public affairs for Ballyhoo Media, overseeing campaigns and strategic partnerships with clients such as Oceana, Warner Brothers, NYCDOT and Miami-Dade County. She previously served as Director of Communications for North Bay Village and as a policy researcher at FIU’s Jorge M. Pérez Metropolitan Center, with published work on affordable housing, gender equity and nonprofit sector impact.

Roldan serves on several civic boards, including the Executive Planning Committee for the Greater Miami Chamber

of Commerce’s Leadership Miami program and the Public Policy Committee at United Way Miami. She was recently named one of the University of Florida’s “40 Gators under 40.”

She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from UF and a master’s in public administration from Florida International University.

BFR Briefings from the Rotunda

Converge heads to DC with ‘smart, sustained growth’

Bipartisan national public affairs firm Converge Public Strategies is expanding into Washington D.C. with the launch of a Federal Affairs Practice Group.

“Since founding Converge, we’ve focused on smart, sustained growth and never forced a federal presence until the moment was right,” said Converge Chair  Jonathan Kilman. “That moment has arrived. Our team is already delivering for clients in D.C., and this expansion reinforces our commitment to providing the highest level of advocacy across all levels of government.”

Converge said the expansion comes amid growing demand from clients seeking sophisticated representation in the nation’s capital at the intersection of executive action, federal funding, legislation and regulation.

Kilman himself has been on the ground in D.C., actively engaging with

federal clients, meeting with members of Congress and administration officials, and helping to shape and build the firm’s federal practice.

The new Federal Affairs Practice will feature strategists and policy experts with deep experience in federal government, regulatory strategy, campaign management and issue advocacy. The lineup includes Converge Partners James Harris, Elnatan Rudolph, Deno Hicks, Fara Sonderling and  Daniel Faraci, as well as Senior Health Policy Advisor  Randy Pate and Senior Policy Advisors  Oscar Gonzales and Bob Harms

The D.C. team will serve clients across various industries and on a diverse range of issues, including health care, labor and employment, agriculture, manufacturing, trade and tariffs, energy, transportation and infrastructure, environment, financial services and fintech, and education.

Above: Converge Public Strategies Partner overseeing government relations, digital and communications Elnatan Rudolph.

Left: from left: Converge Public Strategies Partner overseeing government relations Deno Hicks; Founder and Chairman Jonathan Kilman; and Rudolph.

Julia Friedland joins Mercury as VP in Florida office

International public strategy firm Mercury Public Affairs has added veteran political communications expert Julia Friedland as a Vice President in its Florida office.

“We are thrilled to welcome Julia to the Mercury team,” said Mercury Partner Ashley Walker. “Julia’s experience as a seasoned messaging strategist and her work leading multiple creative communications efforts will prove to be a significant asset for our clients.”

Friedland brings nearly a decade of experience crafting messaging that resonates with voters, leveraging digital media to generate earned media, and navigating crises with strategic communications. Before joining Mercury, she worked for SelectFlorida, the state’s international commerce arm.

“Mercury’s reputation for delivering results is unmatched,” Friedland said, adding that she’s happy to be joining “the high-caliber Florida team to help clients zero in on their key message, reach the right audiences, and craft compelling narratives that move the needle.”

Friedland’s résumé also includes work as a spokesperson for Gov.  Ron DeSantis’ Office, Communications Director for the Republican Party of Florida, and as the Florida Communications Director for the Republican National Committee during the 2022 cycle.

Friedland earned her undergraduate degree in communications, legal institutions, economics and government from American University.

Mercury operates in the government relations, international affairs, digital influence, public opinion research, media strategy and bipartisan grassroots mobilization spheres across the world, including all 50 U.S. states. The firm has more than a dozen offices nationwide and is part of the Omnicom Public Relations Group.

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Albert Balido

“I am a modern day courtier working in a representative democracy.”

Significant other? Children? Grandkids?  My beloved life partner,  Maggie. I have 3 stepchildren:  Aiden and  Mason, 22, and Viola, 14.

In 25 words or less, explain what you do. I am a modern day courtier working in a representative democracy.

Without using the words Democrat, independent or Republican, conservative or liberal, describe your political persuasion. As politics imitates life, my philosophy is centered primarily on the works of Seneca, Burke, Rochefoucauld, and Hayek.

During your career, have you had a favorite pro bono client? The Hillel Student Centers of UF, FSU and USF. We are serving them presently, seeking funding for safety and security enhancements in light of the Oct. 7th, 2023 massacre.

Three favorite charities? Hope for Justice, Riverkeepers, Florida Grand Opera.

Any last-day-of-Session traditions? The simple pleasure of packing up my office.

What are you most looking forward to during the 2026 Legislative Session? “Peace in our time.”

Professional accomplishment of which you are most proud? The creation of Anfield Consulting with my cofounder,  Frank Bernardino, 15 years ago, and my immense pride in what it has now become known as Arrow Group.

Who is your favorite Florida Capitol Press Corps reporter and why? I had a favorite in  Brendan Farrington prior to his departure from the AP. He was always pleasant to speak to, asked pointed and wise questions, and held a high standard for excellence and ethics. Proud to call him my friend.

Other than FloridaPolitics.com, your reading list includes … The Wall Street Journal, Investor’s Business Daily, The Daily Telegraph, Le Figaro, Il Foglio.

What swear word do you use most often? I use the “F word” a good bit. But it’s almost always reserved for something positive.

What is your most treasured possession? My home in little Havana. It was my grandparents’ first and only purchased home in the United States after their exile from Cuba. It has been in the family since 1974.

The best hotel in Florida is … The Breakers.

You’ve just learned that you will be hosting a morning talk show about Florida politics. Who are the first four guests you’d invite to appear? Susie Wiles,  Joe Gruters,  John Morgan,  Steve Schale.

Favorite movie? Anything released by Wes Anderson

When you pig out, what do you eat? Sicuramente, mangiare Italiano.

George Feijoo

Significant other? Children? Grandkids? I married the lovely  Samantha Feijoo in 2011, and we’ve since been blessed with Olivia (8) and Luka (6).

In 25 words or less, explain what you do. Government shapes market value daily. I help clients protect and capture it by engaging with policymakers and regulators, primarily in the financial services sector.

Without using the words Democrat, independent, Republican, conservative or liberal, describe your political persuasion. I view every policy position through the lens of my faith in Jesus Though only God could deliver perfect justice and mercy through a single act, we must still strive as a society to balance similarly competing values — freedom and safety, personal responsibility and compassion.

During your career, have you had a favorite pro bono client? Florida public school teachers. My wife teaches fourth grade, so every Session I pray she brings home the bacon.

Three favorite charities? I work with the FCA of North Florida and the PHI Center in Tallahassee. Shoutout to  Clay Clemens and Project Focus for their work helping young adults with disabilities in the Tampa area as well.

Any last-day-of-Session traditions? Hoping that one last insurance bill doesn’t torpedo the Session summary I’ve already drafted.

What are you most looking forward to during the 2026 Legislative Session? Weekly lunches with the Floridian Partners team — part work, part chisme, always a good time.

“I view every policy position through the lens of my faith in Jesus.”

Professional accomplishment of which you are most proud? Creating a legal framework for peer-to-peer car sharing. It took three years of battling rental car companies, airports and the trial bar over taxes, fees and insurance, but we got it done. Floridians gained an innovative transportation option and revenue stream, and I earned my first big win alongside the fearless Melissa Ramba.

Who is your favorite Florida Capitol Press Corps reporter and why? I lurk on  Gary Fineout’s and  Peter Schorsch’s Twitters for spicy scoops.

Other than FloridaPolitics.com, your reading list includes … Insurance Journal and Miami Heat Reddit threads.

What swear word do you use most often? “Fudge!” for basketball injuries, “shoot” for everything else.

What is your most treasured possession? A pedalboard I built for my one-man band gigs, controlled by a file on my iPad with over 500 handmade chord charts, each with custom drum loop data — basically irreplaceable unless another pandemic hits.

The best hotel in Florida is … “I just feel like this house is the hotel, and that was my real home.” — my daughter, on our first night back from the Four Seasons in Fort Lauderdale.

You’ve just learned that you will be hosting a morning talk show about Florida politics. Who are the first four guests you’d invite to appear? Ron DeSantis,  Danny Perez,  Jason Pizzo and Gary Guzzo. Have fun, Gary!

Favorite movie? “Nacho Libre” — “It’s the best!”

When you pig out, what do you eat? Everyone else’s leftovers. “You gonna finish that?”

“I believe in practical, resultsdriven policies.”

Significant other? Children? Grandkids?  Currently single. One daughter (Mona, 8). No grandkids.

In 25 words or less, explain what you do. I’m a lobbyist and relationship builder who connects policymakers and organizations to influence legislation, secure funding and create impactful solutions for communities and clients.

Without using the words Democrat, independent or Republican, conservative or liberal, describe your political persuasion. I believe in practical, results-driven policies that strengthen communities and support economic growth.

During your career, have you had a favorite pro bono client? Yes, one of my favorite pro bono clients was a grassroots organization focused on helping underserved families. Supporting their mission and seeing real community impact made the work incredibly rewarding.

Three favorite charities? Big Brothers Big Sisters, Take Stock in Children, All Kids Bike.

Any last-day-of-Session traditions? Watch the hankie drop, of course.

What are you most looking forward to during the 2026 Legislative Session? Seeing all my old friends!

Professional accomplishment of which you are most proud? One of the professional accomplishments I’m most proud of is my role in securing funding and legislative support for communitybased initiatives that make a real impact — particularly in underserved areas.

Earl Jones

Who is your favorite Florida Capitol Press Corps reporter and why? Peter Schorsch my favorite Capitol Corps reporter because his updates are fast, sharp and always on point. Getting his text alerts on what’s happening at the Capitol and across Florida — often before the news even breaks — has been incredibly useful for staying ahead in my work.

Other than FloridaPolitics. com, your reading list includes … News Service of Florida, POLITICO Florida, Tampa Bay Times, The Hill, The Daily.

What swear word do you use most often?

Let’s just say it starts with ‘F’ and gets the point across fast.

What is your most treasured possession? All of the thank-you letters I have received from either clients or past constituents (from the legislative aide days).

The best hotel in Florida is … Not sure, but I do love the Ritz Carlton Amelia Island.

You’ve just learned that you will be hosting a morning talk show about Florida politics. Who are the first four guests you’d invite to appear? This year … President  Ben Albritton, Speaker  Daniel Perez, Gov.  Ron DeSantis and Sen. Tracie Davis.

Favorite movie? Too many to choose from … “The Last Dragon”.

When you pig out, what do you eat? Definitely pizza.

Mike Moore

“I am always advocating for causes and issues impacting my home county.”

Significant other? Children? Grandkids? My wife,  Lauren, is a nursing professor, and we have three children.  Aubrey and  Aiden are both attending college and Amberlee will be going into her junior year of high school.

In 25 words or less, explain what you do. I use my experience, expertise and relationships in both government and industry to help solve my client’s challenges and champion their priorities.

Without using the words Democrat, independent or Republican, conservative or liberal, describe your political persuasion. I believe that the principles of capitalism and freedom of enterprise are core to having a strong, innovative and sustainable economy.

During your career, have you had a favorite pro bono client? While I don’t have an official pro bono client, I am always advocating for causes and issues impacting my home county.

Three favorite charities? AnimalLuvr’s Dream Rescue, AdventHealth Foundation and Moffit Cancer Center.

Any last-day-of-Session traditions? Nothing too exciting. Typically, it’s spent updating clients with calls and emails.

What are you most looking forward to during the 2026 Legislative Session? Working with my team to ensure our clients’ voices are heard, their priorities are advanced and their goals are realized.

Professional accomplishment of which you are most proud? My wife and I started our own health care company in the early 2000s. We were able to build that company to be the largest of its kind in the Tampa Bay region and later sold it. That was my first foray into politics. I learned how much government and regulations had an effect on our business and began going to Tallahassee to advocate, essentially lobby, for my industry.

Who is your favorite Florida Capitol Press Corps reporter and why? When I get up in the morning, I can always count on Jacob Ogles to have the latest scoop.

Other than FloridaPolitics.com, your reading list includes … The Southern Group’s daily newsletter, “What’s Trending Florida,” The Wall Street Journal, POLITICO, scrolling on X.

What swear word do you use most often? Jeepers.

What is your most treasured possession? Scrapbooks of family photographs.

The best hotel in Florida is … The iconic Thunderbird Beach Resort on Treasure Island.

You’ve just learned that you will be hosting a morning talk show about Florida politics. Who are the first four guests you’d invite to appear? Funny enough, I hosted a weekly radio show, Reel Politics, and interviewed dozens of national, local and state leaders. Four people I never had a chance to interview who I’d invite if I was still doing the show today are President  Donald Trump, Gov.  Ron DeSantis, Speaker  Daniel Perez and President Ben Albritton.

Favorite movie? “Goodfellas”.

When you pig out, what do you eat? Crab legs.

PHOTO: The Workmans

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Jileah Wilder

“I have always seen my parents as my North Star, guiding me through life’s challenges.”

In 25 words or less, explain what you do. I advocate for education policies, build relationships with lawmakers and influence legislation to support schools, students and educators at the state level.

Without using the words Democrat, independent or Republican, conservative or liberal, describe your political persuasion. I support social justice, accessible education and health care, environmental protection, and policies that uplift communities through peoplecentered governance and systemic reform.

During your career, have you had a favorite pro bono client? The Virgil Hawkins Florida Chapter of the National Bar Association would be my favorite pro bono client thus far because of its powerful legacy of civil rights advocacy, commitment to justice and dedication to empowering communities through legal education, access and support for future lawyers. While I am not a lawyer yet, the profound work of the Virgil Hawkins Florida Chapter of the National Bar Association has continued to inspire me through their advocacy efforts.

Three favorite charities? My top three favorite charities are the Florida Food Policy Council (FLFPC), Girl Power Rocks, and the Florida Children’s Initiative.

Any last-day-of-Session traditions?

On the last day of Session, if it isn’t too chaotic, I like to meet my best friend for dinner at Backroads Crossing and catch her up on all of the happenings of the Legislature.

What are you most looking forward to during the 2026 Legislative Session? I’m eager to see the legacy-defining policy initiatives that term-limited legislators will prioritize as they conclude their service.

Professional accomplishment of which you are most proud? I take great pride in beginning my lobbying career right after college and carving out a space in education policy, collaborating with experienced lobbyists and legislators along the way.

Who is your favorite Florida Capitol Press Corps reporter and why? I enjoy the work of  Gary Fineout, as he always provides thorough, fact-based information when you need it.

Other than FloridaPolitics.com, your reading list includes … Miami Herald, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Economist, South Florida Sun-Sentinel and Time Magazine.

What swear word do you use most often? I’d like to think my vocabulary is too expansive to have a favorite swear word.

What is your most treasured possession? I hold closest to my heart a small prayer booklet given to me as a young child by my parents. I have always seen my parents as my North Star, guiding me through life’s challenges with unwavering strength and compassion. This booklet isn’t just a keepsake; to me, it represents a symbol of their collective resilience, their sacrifices and their love that continues to inspire me every day.

The best hotel in Florida is … The Setai Miami Beach.

You’ve just learned that you will be hosting a morning talk show about Florida politics. Who are the first four guests you’d invite to appear? I would love to invite Sen. Tracie Davis, Rep. Alex Rizo, Kathy Mizereck and Gary Fineout

Favorite movie? My all-time favorite movie is “Safety Patrol” starring  Leslie Nielsen

When you pig out, what do you eat? It’s not a true pig out if I’m not having the chargrilled oysters, a center cut filet and loaded lobster mac and cheese from FishBones in Lake Mary.

Say Farewell to Florida’s Unwanted Distinction: The Business Rent Tax

By Scott Shalley

Florida consistently leads the way to break down barriers, eliminate unnecessary mandates and adopt smart regulations. The forward-thinking, innovative solutions we pioneer here often set the national policy agenda.

There’s one distinction, however, that we’re much less likely to boast: Florida is the only state in the nation that charges a business rent tax on commercial property.

But not for much longer.

Thanks to the strong leadership of Gov.  Ron DeSantis, Senate President  Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez, the business rent tax will come to an end on October 1.

Under current law, every time employers pay rent, they’re also forced to fork over a chunk of change to the state government.

There are hundreds of thousands of employers in Florida who currently pay an additional 2% tax on rent for office space, operations facilities, storage warehouses and more. Collectively, businesses that operate in Florida pay more than $1 billion every year to bloat the government.

This hefty tax on top of other challenges Floridians face — inflation, supply chain disruption and high labor costs — make it challenging to grow, create jobs and prosper.

da. As national leaders work to bring production of goods back to America, Florida should stand out for all the right reasons, not for our “Florida Only” tax on business rent.

Florida consistently leads the way to break down barriers, eliminate unnecessary mandates and adopt smart regulations. The forward-thinking, innovative solutions we pioneer here often set the national policy agenda.

The commercial rent tax is a deterrent for businesses seeking to expand, relocate or start new ventures in Flori-

Fortunately, we’ve made progress in recent years. Since 2018, Florida lawmakers have steadily reduced the rent tax from 6% to 2% in 2024. In doing so, our leaders have provided more than $1.2 billion in annual tax relief to businesses.

These reductions have allowed businesses to create new jobs and hire more team members to the benefit of all Floridians.

Now, the elimination of the business rent tax altogether will provide meaningful tax relief and a much-needed boost to the Sunshine State. It sends a powerful message to job creators: Florida isn’t just a good place to do business — it’s the best.

On behalf of Florida’s more than 387,000 retail businesses, which include global brands, generational businesses and unique local boutiques, I am immensely grateful to our elected officials in the House and Senate for their leadership. With the elimination of Florida’s business rent tax, we can finally say farewell to this unwanted distinction and roll out the welcome mat for new businesses, economic growth and job creation.

Scott Shalley is the president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation.

Florida Roots. Global Reach.

Welcome to the  Members Lounge

Photography by The Workmans

Mostpeople know they have a state Representative and Senator, even if they aren’t quite sure of a name. And even for those who are familiar with the names and faces within The Process, knowledge often stops at the personal.

But almost as important as how they vote or what they prioritize is who they are behind the curtain. What do our Legislative members sound like when the microphones are off? They have families and passions, hobbies and businesses.

The Advocacy Partners sat down with Sen. Danny Burgess and Rep. Mike Redondo to find out what makes them tick, and to learn a little more about the person, not just the lawmaker.

The Advocacy Partners stands as a premier, white-shoe advocacy firm in Tallahassee, renowned for its integrity, influence, and institutional credibility. With a legacy rooted in extensive policy knowledge and bipartisan respect, the firm has built a reputation for doing things the right way: ethically, strategically, and with results.

Their team brings decades of high-level experience in government, politics, and business, positioning them as trusted advisors to clients navigating Florida’s complex political and regulatory landscape. Whether shaping public policy, guiding legislative strategy, or advancing client interests with discretion and discipline, The Advocacy Partners consistently exemplify excellence and professionalism at the highest level.

Mike

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Danny Burgess

What is your favorite place/activity to unwind in Tallahassee?

We are an outdoor-loving family of avid campers and hikers, so when we need to unwind while in Tallahassee, we find a place to connect with nature. Our favorite spot is Lafayette Heritage Trail Park in Piney Z, where you can find train tracks, a unique boardwalk and bridge, hidden trails, and usually a few alligators. It’s a hidden gem where we can always find a new adventure.

Describe what drew you to politics.

When the unthinkable happened on September 11, 2001, then-President George W. Bush spoke so profoundly while holding a megaphone atop the rubble of the World Trade Center, showing a nation on its knees true leadership in one of its most challenging moments. I was in 10th grade at the time and that is the moment when the importance of public service really sank in for me. It showed the real impact a leader could have on those they were elected to serve.

Imagine you’re the angriest you’ve ever been, what might someone overhear you grumble?

I asked my kids for help on this one: “Usually it is one of those words we aren’t allowed to say, like when Nora made a memory on your Jeep in Moab by drawing a picture with a rock on your door.”

If you were the host of a podcast, what four colleagues would you ask to join as guests, and why?

Democrat Jason Pizzo, Senate Minority Leader Jason Pizzo, Independent Jason Pizzo, and future Republican Jason Pizzo

If you could have drinks at the Governor’s Club with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and why?

Teddy Roosevelt: The youngest President inaugurated, a great orator, a military man, a conservationist, and the father of our national parks, who made a significant impact on American politics and played a crucial role in successfully guiding our country through difficult moments.

What is your favorite Legislative Session tradition, and why?

Every year we take the kids up to the 22nd floor of the Capitol in the evening on a weekend during Session and let them run around and play. We eat Firehouse Subs on the window ledge together and look out over the city. The kids ask for the tradition every year and it’s become a very special moment I look forward to each Session.

What do you imagine for yourself after your Legislative career concludes?

When my legislative career comes to an end, maybe I will finally have the time to pursue my childhood dream of becoming a marine biologist focused on shark research and studying the Great White! A man can dream at least …

Describe something about The Process that those not entrenched in it might not know?

Well, I used to say we pass a budget on time … but I also like to let people know that most of what we do in this process is bipartisan, if not unanimously supported. It’s the 10 or so issues that grab headlines that can make it seem more divisive, when, in reality, that is just a small fraction of our work. But the average person unfortunately doesn’t get to hear about a lot of the rest. I want to encourage people to not lose faith in their leaders, because there is so much more going on in this process than what is reported.

Describe a goal you have not yet reached, and tell us how you plan to get there.

To travel every state with my family in our RV and hit every national park in the continental U.S. (and Alaska)! We are well on our way there – so far, we’ve been able to visit about half of our national parks and around 30 states. This summer, we’re planning to cross a few more off the list, including Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Badlands National Park, Wind Cave National Park, Isle Royale National Park, and Voyageurs National Park, as well as revisiting our favorite, Glacier National Park.

“Maybe I will finally have the time to pursue my childhood dream of becoming a marine biologist focused on shark research and studying the Great White!”

–DANNY BURGESS

How do you juggle your day-to-day obligations outside the Legislature during the demanding 60-days of Session?

I am very fortunate that my family is able to travel with me to Tallahassee for Session each year. Without them there by my side, I don’t know if I would be able to juggle the demands of Session with my personal and professional life. During those 60+ days, Tallahassee becomes an extension of home, and when I get back from the Capitol each night, my team is with me. For a while, we lived in our RV during Session, but with the kiddos getting bigger, we needed more space for suits, dresses and shoes, as well as for the cavaliers. My wife is my greatest sounding board and supporter, and my kids keep me motivated – I truly couldn’t do this without them.

If you were talking to a graduating class of high school students, what advice would you give them as they enter the next chapter of their lives?

Failing, losing, falling short – that is not true failure. The true failure is quitting or giving up. It’s what you do when you fail that matters most and says everything about your character. You learn what you are made of when you fail and face adversity. One of my favorite quotes is from Babe Ruth – “It’s hard to beat a person who never gives up.” I have it framed on my Capitol office wall, so I never forget to keep trying.

Rep. John Snyder joins Sen. Danny Burgess in the “Members Lounge.” Look for his profile in a future edition.

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Mike Redondo

What is your favorite place/activity to unwind in Tallahassee?

My favorite place to unwind in town are the great parks near the Capitol on Park Avenue. I love being outdoors as it is, and the parks in Tallahassee are the perfect place for a stroll to decompress after a long day of politicking.

Describe what drew you to politics.

had in my own life. When it came time to run for office, I viewed it not only as an incredible honor but also my way of giving back to this amazing country that has given me everything.

If you were the host of a podcast, what four colleagues would you ask to join as guests, and why?

know that a conversation with him would be one that any podcast audience would love to hear.

Speaker Daniel Perez, Rep. Patt Maney, Rep. Jennifer Canady, and Rep. Juan Carlos Porras.  Each of them brings a unique perspective that I think would be fascinating to discuss.

To start, the Speaker has been leading our chamber as a true statesman from our first day in office. He is someone who truly leads from the front, and it has been an incredible honor to serve under him. I

My parents are Cuban immigrants who came to this country with essentially nothing other than the desire to pursue the American dream. Growing up, I saw the incredible sacrifices that my family made for me and my brother. It was thanks to their hard work – and the unique opportunities that this country offers – that I have all of the success I have four colleagues would you ask to join as guests, and why?

Next, Rep. Maney (aka Judge Maney and General Maney) is someone with such an incredible breadth of experience and knowledge that I could easily just let him explain his life story as a means of entertaining myself and a podcast audience. His time in the military, which runs the gamut from serving as the commander of Pope John Paul II’s security detail to being wounded in Afghanistan, is alone worthy of several podcast episodes. But Rep. Maney also served as a judge for many years and is considered one of the deans of the House in my opinion.

Next, Chair Canady is also an incredible leader and someone I think could

“... the keys to success are always the same – consistency and hard work will win every single time and in every area of life.” –MIKE REDONDO

serve as a guest on multiple episodes of any podcast. Chair Canady is someone who brings a wealth of experience in the field of education, which I am keenly interested in as the son of a lifelong educator. More than that, though, she is also going to be the first female Speaker of the House in Florida’s history. She is someone who has quickly established herself as a leader and someone I look forward to learning from in the years ahead.

If you could have drinks at the Governor’s Club with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and why?

This one is easy –  Jesus Christ. I would think that this is almost too easy of an answer, so if I had to give a second answer it would be George Washington

What is your favorite Legislative Session tradition, and why?

I think the pageantry of the opening day of Session is my favorite tradition. It’s both a festive time with family and flowers decorating the chamber, but it is

also the start of the serious business of the Legislature. With equal parts fun and substance. I love it.

What do you imagine for yourself after your Legislative career concludes?

Hopefully I will find myself back home raising a family with my wife. Public service has been the highest honor of my life so far, and I know the time will fly by. But, when it is all said and done, I look forward to returning home to my family and continuing my career as an entrepreneur.

Describe something about The Process that those not entrenched in it might not know?

I think the most interesting thing about The Process is that we actually all get along. It certainly helps to have a super majority, so I’m not blind to that fact, but I think most people would be surprised that almost every single member of the House is someone I would consider a friend already. The relationships we form last a lifetime and it separates us

from other segments of government in that it allows us to get more things done.

If you were talking to a graduating class of high school students, what advice would you give them as they enter the next chapter of their lives?

It sounds cliché, but that they truly can change the world, if they’re willing to work for it. Young people today are bombarded with negativity and pressure by things like social media and the 24-hour news cycle. In this climate in particular, it is easy to fall into the trap of thinking that everyone is doing better and achieving more. Technology and the world may be changing increasingly rapidly, but the keys to success are always the same – consistency and hard work will win every single time and in every area of life. I’m an eternal optimist, so I would challenge them to truly think about what they want out of this life, and then to meaningfully pursue it every single day.

Go explore. Go visit monuments and mountains and make the mundane magical with adventure. Go forth to find new places and spaces. Go on to travel again. Because we’re still here—ready, willing and able to get you anywhere you want to go. iflybeaches.com/escape

Connect for impac t

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Deloitte’s Government & Public Services practice –our people, ideas and technology – connect for impact to help Florida leaders improve outcomes for the people they serve.

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From card rooms to culture wars: 10 BUDGET curveballs from Session

By Jacob Ogles and Jesse Scheckner

This year’s Session dragged on 42 days past its scheduled limit due to budget gridlock that lawmakers finally broke through in mid-June.

They agreed on several massive set-asides, from $750 million for recession incidentals (which has since been vetoed) and $500 million for emergency response to $325 million to expedite major road projects and $100 million for the My Safe Florida Home program.

There were myriad interesting items in the $115.1 billion spending plan the Legislature sent to Gov.  Ron DeSantis in midJune. Here are 10 of them, chosen not necessarily for their impact and not at all by any recognizably scientific process, but because they’re sure to make you go, ‘Hmm.”

Race fans, start your engines

If anyone still worries about the NASCAR dad (or mom) vote, maybe this will win lawmakers the cup: a sales tax exemption on tickets to the NASCAR Cup Series Championship whenever it’s held at the Homestead-Miami Speedway.

That includes qualifying events and support races held at the venue three days in advance, so long as they’re NASCAR-sanctioned. The inclusion came less than a month after NASCAR announced it will hold all three of its national series championships — the Cup, Xfinity and Craftsman Truck series — at the South Florida track, which hosted the races from 2002 to 2019 before the events swerved into Phoenix for three years.

Budget negotiators said the cost to the state from losing sales tax on each stub will be negligible.

But of course, the deal sent good government heads spinning out of control.

Big bucks flow into — and back out of — reservoir project

Last year, the Legislature allocated $400 million to the controversial Grove Land Reservoir and Storm Water Treatment Area Project in Okeechobee and Indian River counties. In June, they clawed back the funds, for which no lawmaker has claimed credit.

But there are ample questions. The Legislature tucked the funding into last year’s budget without public scrutiny or committee debate. That attention may — but shouldn’t, according to environmental watchdog groups — die down now that the money’s been returned to the general revenue fund.

The money was to help finance a massive undertaking spanning thousands of acres where stormwater and agricultural runoff would be stored and treated before reaching the Indian River Lagoon.

Environmental groups fiercely opposed the effort, citing inadequate scientific review and concerns about funneling polluted runoff into Central Florida waterways. Supporters, including  Kathleen Passidomo and  Paul Renner, called it a forward-focused investment.

Padding card rooms’ cut

Poker operations around the state will get to keep a bigger cut of house winnings, thanks to a 2% cut in the pari-mutuel tax paid by Florida cardrooms.

With the tax dropping from 10% to 8%, that means the state will have $2.5 million less in its general revenue fund — quite the jackpot for 29 currently licensed card rooms in operation in the Sunshine State. But the relief comes at a time when gambling institutions not run by the Florida Seminole Tribe face competition both from the massive Hard Rock casinos and the digital arcades popping up in strip malls in virtually every community.

Republicans, particularly those in the House, looked for ways to level the playing field for the gambling institutions providing jobs for the down-on-their-luck for decades, in hopes of keeping doors open at the sizable facilities.

Local elections get a hand

Another $2.5 million budget set-aside will reimburse counties for the extra cost of ballots, poll workers and logistics during Special Elections, of which there have been several in recent months.

The nonrecurring funds spare localities from being left on the hook for costly, unplanned elections. Election Supervisors will be able to claw back actual costs, capped at $25 per registered voter in each impacted county.

Backers of the change praised it as a practical fix that safeguards election administration without raising the taxpayer burden. But others questioned the timing, noting that the extra funding was only added after Special Elections had already hit local budgets.

Some local governments have tried to cut costs in recent years by rescheduling their elections to coincide with federal contests. One such move in Miami that stands to give current officials an extra year in office has drawn the ire of Florida’s Attorney General.

Lasering the countryside

Anyone can draw a map with pen and paper, but why not just use lasers instead? The Legislature dedicated $15 million for Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) mapping of Florida’s terrain.

Mounting laser scanners to aircraft and then shooting light pulses to the ground, the high-tech tools allow cartographers to create a far more detailed three-dimensional map of Florida’s topography.

The project will further develop a geospatial model Florida first invested in around 2022, when the Florida Geographic Information Office issued a LiDAR collection contract to gather terrain on 58 counties. A second contract later helped make a more detailed scan of areas struck by Hurricane Michael.

All that data remains available for geography hounds to mine online, but it remains incomplete and out-of-date. It appears the appropriators think it’s time for another flyover.

Much audit, very oversight

In an 11th-hour move, lawmakers also handed DeSantis broad powers to investigate local governments for waste, fraud and for funding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. His Office of Policy and Budget (OPB) can now audit counties and cities for overspending, inefficiency and DEI-related expenses.

Local governments that refuse to cooperate face $1,000-per-day fines.

The plan has drawn comparisons to  Donald Trump’s shortlived DOGE initiative, through which Elon Musk took a chainsaw

to federal agencies. Like the meme-inspired Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), OPB is set to examine contracts, grants, salaries and other data —  much of which is already public — and submit a report by January 13.

Ironically, some of the waste now under scrutiny stems from DeSantis appointees, including Glen Gilzean, who was accused of mishandling millions in community grants, and  Andrew Bain, a former Orange-Osceola State Attorney who allegedly approved large staff payouts before leaving office.

Hopeless wanderer

Hope Florida launched with the hope of moving people dependent on government assistance toward receiving help from charities and nonprofits.

But amid a scandal around whether the  Casey DeSantis-championed initiative served as a conduit to funnel Medicaid money to anti-pot political campaign, the Legislature decided to defund all Hope line operators working at the Department of Children and Families.

That freed up $2 million in the budget for other things. On top of that, the Legislature initially planned to give the Veterans Affairs Department $516,000 to hire six Hope Navigators in that agency, but nixed the idea.

The defunding of existing positions and rejection of new ones served as a final financial snub to the state program that at one point looked to be a centerpiece of the First Lady’s rumored gubernatorial campaign.

As one lawmaker put it, how many people does the state have to give government jobs to keep them off welfare?

Last minute sprinkle for free thinking

A state-backed query on how free higher-ed students and staff feel they are to express their beliefs will continue with a $300,000 earmark the Senate added near the end of budget talks.

The funding will split evenly between state universities and colleges, which will facilitate the “Intellectual Freedom & Viewpoint Diversity” survey. The poll was created through a 2021 law by former Rep.  Spencer Roach and then-Sen.  Ray Rodrigues, who now serves as Chancellor of the State University System.

The voluntary survey, expanded last year to 52 questions, aims to gauge comfort with expressing diverse viewpoints on

campus. But participation has been low. In 2022, just 2.4% of university students responded. That figure rose to 14.5% last year.

College response rates were even lower.

Supporters say the effort promotes free speech and protects against “wokeness” and “cancel culture.” Critics say it’s a wasted splash of cash with a greater potential to divide than inform.

Cabinet salary freeze

While the Legislature ultimately agreed to give rank-and-file state workers a 2% pay raise, the same can’t be said for Florida’s statewide elected officials.

The Governor’s yearly pay will remain at $141,400. Meanwhile, whoever he taps as Lieutenant Governor will earn $135,516 annually. The other members of Florida’s Cabinet — including Attorney General  James Uthmeier, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and the person ultimately appointed as Chief Financial Officer — will all earn $139,988.

Not to cry for those earning six-figure salaries and having their names in big print on government documents and vehicles, but the group holds some distinction as the only ones not cashing bigger checks this year. Supreme Court Justices and other judges, State Attorneys, Public Defenders, Gaming Control Commissioners and Public Service Commissioners will all enjoy a boost in take-home cash beginning July 1.

Jackpot dreams, buzzkill payout

The Senate played big on Florida Lottery ads, entering budget talks with a $5 million pitch to boost marketing. The House responded with all the enthusiasm of a losing scratch-off: zero.

Undeterred, the Senate cut its ask to $3 million. Still nothing. Then on the final day of negotiations, the House blinked — tossing in a take-it-or-leave-it offer of $500,000. The Senate took it, proving even a half-million can feel like a jackpot when the alternative is zilch.

That modest ad bump is tucked into the Lottery’s $234.3 million budget, which also includes $821,000 for gaming system upgrades, nearly $500,000 for office leases and $250,000 for a security audit — because even luck needs protection.

But while lawmakers haggled over how best to ballyhoo the state’s glorified raffle, Floridians were quietly spending less. Lottery ticket sales dropped 4% this year to $9.42 million.

When a child is diagnosed with cancer, their family would go to the ends of the earth for a cure. But they shouldn’t have to.

At Wolfson Children’s Hospital, we’re leading the charge to change that. Together with Florida’s specialty children’s hospitals, we’re building a world-class destination for pediatric cancer research — so no child has to leave home to receive the very best treatment.

Our children deserve world-class cancer care. Let’s bring it home to Jacksonville.

Forevery era, there are people who shape its course. Some hold elected office, others lead major corporations. And then there are others, less known, who quietly and confidently work behind the scenes.

Out of the limelight is where they shine, measuring public opinion, developing strategies and shaping messages. They also move public support, create momentum for change or raise support for industry objectives. These are people who have an affinity for corporate brands, or for propelling candidates or ballot issue campaigns to victory.

And for Consensus, that light almost burned out shortly after it was first lit.

“I’ve never been so f-ing insulted in my entire f-ing life,” said then-31-yearold Tre’ Evers to the firm’s first potential client at a meeting where they were supposed to sign a contract.

Tre’s fuse was lit by the would-be client’s inartful negotiating tactic when he said, “you guys aren’t worth what you’re asking for.”

“Tre’ got up from the table, looked at me and said, ‘we’re done here,’” recounted  John Sowinski, co-founder of Consensus Communications.

Maybe youthful arrogance lost a cli-

BY PETER SCHORSCH

ent. Or maybe it was something else. Several months later, that potential client died in a small plane crash. Sowinski, whose wife was expecting their first child, would almost certainly have been on that airplane. Youthful arrogance? God’s intervention? Or dumb luck?

Sowinski and Evers set out to not just succeed in business, but to help shape Florida history. Their fingerprints could be found on a statewide referendum campaign establishing term limits, another banning indoor workplace smoking, another protecting Florida fisheries from excessive commercial netting, and a string of referenda fending off gambling conglomerates from lining Florida with casinos. They defeated the so-called Home Democracy amendment, which would have crippled Florida’s economy.

Consensus also ran the campaign for Orange County Mayor Mel Martinez who would be named to a President’s Cabinet. Consensus also ran his U.S. Senate campaign. The firm also helped elect the Secretary of State who would certify the Florida election for George W. Bush.

For the past thirty years, no firm in their line of business has been closer to the tectonic plates of power than Consensus Communications.

Born of friendship in the golden glow of Ronald Reagan’s America — two young idealists, Evers and Sowinski, meeting over racquetball and political dreams — Consensus was not just a business venture. It was a belief that ideas, artfully communicated, could move people and shift the course of political history, corporate reputations, everything that needed better and more persuasive explanations.

Prior to forming Consensus, Evers was a political appointee in Washington D.C. for President George H.W. Bush and later for Orlando Mayor  Glenda Hood. Sowinski honed his skills at the Florida Student Association in Tallahassee, the Orlando Chamber of Commerce and in Orlando Mayor Bill Frederick’s office.

Sowinski became the go-to professional for statewide constitutional amendments and a sought-after communications strategist. Evers became a campaign maven, and a local and federal lobbyist. Combined, they remain a force to be reckoned with.

From left: Tre’ Evers, John Sowinski, Dana Loncar and Ryan Houck of Consensus Communications. Photo: Mary Beth Tyson

Sowinski and Evers set out to not just succeed in business, but to help shape Florida history.

Consensus invited its many clients and friends to celebrate its

from

anniversary at a party in their Orlando offices. Top left: Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer delivers a proclamation to the firm. Top right: Dana Loncar welcomes guests to the soiree. Middle left: John Sowinski shares ‘war stories’

the firms’ many campaigns. Middle right: “The Green Room” is where firm clients gather before commercial shoots. Bottom right and left. Ryan Houck and Tre Evers offer some behind-the-camera insights of their work. Photos: The Workmans

“What makes Consensus unique is they aren’t just a political firm. They aren’t just a PR firm or an ad agency. They don’t just lobby. They’re strategists first, and they bring the lessons learned in the trenches of politics — the ‘must-win’ attitude and cutting-edge strategies of highstakes campaigns — and put them to work for businesses of all sizes and industry groups,” said  Mark Wilson, President of The Florida Chamber of Commerce.

And the corporations came calling.

The sugar industry wanted to develop TV advocacy campaigns. Walt Disney World needed more local insight. Wal-Mart was poised for major growth throughout Florida. Mining companies, family farms, manufacturing powerhouses, hospitals, companies and industries that need to impact public perception, protect their reputation or influence government have all been a part of the stable of clients that Consensus has served.

Consensus has also helped universities, government agencies and cities and counties throughout the state achieve their goals, including the University of Florida, the University of Central Florida, Osceola, Seminole, Sarasota and Pasco counties and the cities of Hallandale Beach and Pompano Beach.

Consensus helped turn Florida from blue to red, electing Republicans to offices previously held by Democrats, racking up a string of victories at every level of politics. And reinforced by the talents of younger Consensus colleagues, they still have the hot hand. The firm broke its own records for election wins in 2024, including campaigns in Florida, North Carolina and Arkansas..

They won with strategy, message, precision, and the kind of steely competence born only of long memory and battle-earned scars.

But what makes this story more than a ledger of victories is the human thread, the friendships that began on college campuses and blossomed into partner ships; the mentorships that launched rising stars like Marc Reichelderfer, Dana Loncar,  Ryan Houck and led to new gen erations of leadership.

“Tre’ and John have always had a great eye for talent,” Reichelderfer said. “Their folks are superstars, and they’ve built careers at Consensus because the best want to work with the best.”

Reichelderfer — or “the Marchitect” as he’s sometimes known in Florida po litical circles — is himself a Consensus alumnus and still a frequent collaborator with the firm.

Building a successful business can be like building a successful sports franchise — you can recruit elite talent, or you can just fill available positions.

“A friend called and said we should meet with Dana Loncar. We didn’t have a job opening, but we met and talked with her for over two hours. John and I looked at each other and said we needed to create a job for her. Kind of like drafting an athlete – you’re not sure where they’ll play, but you know they will play at a high level,” Evers said.

Consensus became more than a political firm. It became a cultural force — expanding into corporate PR, digital media, and strategic communications for industries navigating the often-foggy waters of

public perception.

“After working with a 19-year-old Ryan Houck on Mel Martinez’s U.S. Senate campaign in 2004, we knew he had rare talent. But that talent was confirmed when the environmental litigators behind the 2010 ‘Hometown Democracy’ ballot issue refused to debate if Ryan — who was half their age — was debating for our side,” Sowinski said. “When that campaign ended, clients wanted to hire Ryan, and he wanted to build his career at Consensus. These days, he’s twice as old and doesn’t bother debating grizzled attorneys — he’s too busy helping shape the future of the firm.”

“Hometown Democracy” was initially thought to be unbeatable, polling at

Dan Cunningham (top) produces engaging media content for firm clients, in collaboration with communications savant Ryan Houck (bottom). Photo: Mary Beth Tyson

over 70%. But on Election Day it got just 33% of the vote. In winning that uphill battle in what turned out to be a land slide, the firm also made a huge discov ery. Short videos, posted on YouTube or Facebook, were the new way to commu nicate and activate supporters.

Consensus tapped the new wave. In stead of hiring a press secretary for that campaign, they hired a video producer, thus, landing another key element at Consensus in the form of recent Full Sail graduate  Dan Cunningham. This was the beginning of what would morph into a juggernaut ad-making business.

They made ads that sang, that bit, that lingered. They made people care. They won awards and campaigns. And they protected corporate reputations.

“When you run for statewide office, you meet a lot of people. But most vot ers will only ‘meet’ you through adver tising. Consensus helped introduce me and what I stand for in ads that are cre ative, memorable, and cut through the barrage of other political ads while still letting me be me,” said U.S. Sen. ley Moody, the former Florida Attorney General. “These ads didn’t just help win

In the 2024 election cycle, Consensus earned 2 Reed Awards, 4 Pollie Awards, and 7 Telly Awards.

2025 GOLDEN ROTUNDA AWARDS Magazine’s

Lobbying Firm of the Year • Boutique Lobbying Firm of the Year

Lobbyist of the Year • Lobbying Duo of the Year • Association of the Year

New Lobbying Group of the Year • Lobbying Play of the Year

MORE LOBBYISTS OF THE YEAR:

Agriculture • Appropriations • Education • Health Care • In-House • Local

Managing Partner • New Lobbyist • Regulated Industries • Strategist • Bad Ass!

CURATED

BY

PETER SCHORSCH WITH PROFILES

BY

BRENDAN FARRINGTON, JESSE SCHECKNER, AND JANELLE IRWIN TAYLOR

Justin time for the Summer breather you hoped to have way back in May, we turn now to our annual Golden Rotundas, an opportunity to recognize the best and brightest among Florida’s lobby corps.

And this year, the class is perhaps as deserving as ever, having just faced what felt like a marathon Session that went more than a month into overtime.

In what some might have assumed would be an easy Session — Republican supermajorities in both chambers with a Republican in charge of the Governor’s Office seems like a recipe for easy consensus — lobbyists faced anything but.

The House was at odds with Gov. Ron DeSantis, with the Senate somewhere in between. And the House and Senate sent budget proposals back and forth for weeks before consensus was reached, leaving any number of fiscal hot potatoes bouncing around and the lobbyists pushing them wondering how it all might shake out.

So it seems fitting that this year produced a class of Golden Rotunda honorees unlike those in previous years. Winners run the gamut from those who have worked for years on difficult projects, to those newer to The Process who brought key legislation in for a landing, to those whose names aren’t necessarily commonplace, but whose work is well-known and widely respected on Adams Street.

We have new faces and firms along with old mainstays populating this year’s list. We’ve collected insights from the lawmakers they lobby, the clients they rep and the fellow lobbyists they often work alongside, all to inform just how these sometimes unsung heroes of The Process get stuff done.

As in years past, our selections are based on input from industry professionals who helped us identify the most exceptional standouts to shower them with the kudos wellearned after 2025’s extended Session.

LOBBYING FIRM OF THE YEAR Corcoran Partners

Corcoran Partners, led by Michael Corcoran, was Florida’s No. 7 firm in 2024 in lobbying compensation, hauling in more than $9 million based on clients reported ranges.

It’s not easy to land in the top 10 in a state where firms are competing with lobby giants like The Southern Group and Ballard Partners. But Corcoran Partners finds itself there often, going toe to toe with some of the biggest names in Florida’s lobby corps.

It helps that Corcoran Partners houses plenty of big names itself, including some with the Corcoran name — Jessica Corcoran, Jacqueline Corcoran and Noah Corcoran — and all-stars such as Matt Blair, Brian Ford, Jeff Hawes, Helen Levine, Will Rodriguez and Andrea Tovar

“Over 25 years, Mike and Jessie have built an incredible team of talented professionals who know The Process inside and out. Mike’s high level of integrity and laser focused intensity are the standard at Corcoran Partners and the key reason they’ve been successful for me and my companies over these many years,” said Jeff Soffer, Chair and CEO of Fontainebleau Development, a Corcoran client.

Clients over and over shared similar sentiments.

“They’re the best,” gushed Dr. Ken Lawson, Legislative Chair of the Florida Optometric Association. “Their ability to provide strategic guidance, their attention to the smallest detail, and their ability to execute have been pivotal to our successes in this most challenging political process. I’ve never enjoyed my time in the political process more than when I’m working hand-in-hand with this talented group of individuals. They’re not only colleagues, but have become true and lifelong friends.”

Others were more specific in their praise. Michelle Maikisch, Executive Director for the Central Florida Expressway Authority, another client, praised the firm for understanding “the complexities of our business.”

“Corcoran Partners took the time to learn our operations, our challenges and our goals. They speak our language. Their client-focused approach, combined with strong relationships at every level of state leadership, gives us the highest confidence in their ability to represent us effectively and strategically. With Corcoran, we have a trusted advocate who delivers results,” she said.

The firm’s wins this year were huge. Its leaders and partners helped land big bucks for clients, including $10 million

Top row left to right: Brian Ford III, Steve Bovo, Will Rodriguez, Michael Corcoran, Matthew Blair, Jeff Hawes. Bottom row left to right: Andrea Tovar, Carlos San Jose, Helen Levine, Noah Corcoran, Jacqueline Corcoran

each for the Florida Atlantic University Health Professions Clinical Training and Research Facility and for the University of South Florida to establish the first college in the state focused on the rapidly evolving fields of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and computing. Not to be outdone, Corcoran Partners also helped secure $31 million for USF for critical infrastructure improvements and upgrades at its flagship Tampa campus.

The firm landed $6.8 million for the Florida Holocaust Museum over this year and last for holocaust education, survivor testimony, artifact preservation and security enhancements, a critical element considering the rise in antisemitic attacks.

The firm also snagged $1.5 million for Feeding Tampa Bay to provide workforce development and on-the-job training in culinary, warehouse logistics and truck driving. That money can help those with barriers to employment overcome challenges and can increase access to healthy food from Florida farmers in areas with high levels of food insecurity.

The same amount rolled in for the group Learning Independence For Tomorrow (LiFT) to expand its microbusiness, vocational and job preparedness training programs through a commercial kitchen, cafe and retail space, serving kids with neurodiversity.

“For over seven years, Corcoran Partners has done more than open legislative doors for LiFT — they’ve opened hearts and minds. They’ve championed our nonprofit mission with the kind of passion, precision and respect most firms reserve for their largest for-profit clients,” LiFT Co-Founder and Board Chair Keli Mondello said.

“Because of Corcoran Team’s relentless advocacy, our voice now echoes in the halls of power, and state leaders truly see our students.”

Among numerous other recent budget wins, the firm also helped nab $750,000 for Nova Southeastern University to train veterans in high-demand health care fields, as well as $500,000 in recurring funds for the Florida Partnership to End Domestic Violence for training and support services for programs and survivors.

So much of the firm’s success, according to clients, is rooted in the partners’ ability to connect.

“The team at Corcoran Partners is plugged into the personalities, policies and priorities that drive policymakers’ decisions and have advanced our organization’s mission in meaningful ways,” St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership CEO

Jason Mathis said.

They also know their clients, said Tampa Bay Chamber President and CEO Bob Rohrlack.

“Corcoran Partners has been instrumental in elevating our public policy efforts. The team has been a true partner, seamlessly fitting into and adding value to our internal advocacy framework,” he said.

And of course, a lobbyist’s job is more than working on the budget. Corcoran Partners also consistently sets itself apart as an ace firm on policy issues.

This Session, the firm successfully advocated for “The Second Chance Act” honoring Port St. Joe High School football player Chance Gainer, who died after collapsing on the field during a game. The bill requires student athletes to undergo at least one electrocardiogram to ensure fitness before participating in interscholastic athletics.

The group also successfully pushed for an amendment to a bill to add the Classic Learning Test as an option for all 10th grade students to evaluate student progress and college readiness, along with the pre-SAT and pre-ACT.

Other big wins include hard-to-achieve relief efforts for people wronged in some way by the government. Last year, the firm got $6.3 million in funding for Julia Perez, who suffered injuries when a St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicle drove directly into the path of the motorcycle Perez was driving at the time.

This year, the firm carved out $1.2 million for Marcus Button and his mom for injuries the two sustained as a result of negligent operation of a Pasco County school bus.

Corcoran Partners can also credit its success to relationships with lawmakers. Members of the Legislature praised the firm with terms like “top notch” and “integrity.”

“I’ve known the team at Corcoran Partners for more than 20 years. Few firms combine integrity and influence like they do,” state Sen. Ed Hooper said. “Their credibility and clear communication help build consensus around tough legislative priorities. The Corcoran Partners team understands how The Process works from the inside out.”

State Rep. Sam Garrison agrees.

“Corcoran Partners has a top-notch team of professionals who know how to work The Process and get the job done right for their clients,” he said.

State Rep. Fiona McFarland similarly praised the firm’s knowledge of the state’s political landscape and for its “un-

matched relationships.”

“They don’t just take on clients — they advocate for interests and causes they believe in with the kind of dedication you’d expect from family, but with the finesse and style of seasoned professionals,” she said.

State Rep. Jason Shoaf, meanwhile, said Corcoran Partners “doesn’t just lobby — they build lasting relationships.”

“From advancing policy to securing funding to expanding partnerships, Corcoran Partners truly understands how to get results,” he added.

And state Rep. Chase Tramont offered what might be the highest praise, reminding that his top priority is “to align and surround myself with people who share my values.” For him, Corcoran Partners fits the bill.

“Having worked closely with Corcoran Partners on a number of issues, I am fully confident that if they are advocating for an issue or a project, I know that it’s on the moral high ground,” he said.

And it’s not just at the state level. Corcoran Partners lobbies federally too. And the praise there is just as strong.

U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody, whom the firm had already had experience working with as Florida Attorney General, called the firm’s partners her friends and said she looks forward “to watching the firm continue to excel in the years to come.”

U.S. Rep. Mike Haridopolis was even more glowing.

“I have known Mike and Jessie for close to 30 years. I’ve worked with their team as Senate President, alongside the firm in the private sector, and now as a Congressman in Washington, D.C. They set the standard for high integrity and work ethic. They were always the first ones in the Capitol in the morning and the last ones to leave the Capitol at night,” he said.

In the meantime, Corcoran Partners continues to grow in Florida with new offices on the Space Coast, as well as nationally with new offices in Washington, D.C.

Its most recent office opened earlier this year on the Space Coast, the firm’s fifth Florida office and sixth overall. As part of the expansion, the firm brought on local business consultant Matt Helmintoller. With its growth continuing, and relationships at every level of government cultivated, Corcoran Partners has positioned itself as a top lobby firm and shows no signs of slowing its progress.

“Congratulations to Corcoran Partners on this wonderful achievement,” said U.S. Sen. Rick Scott

in Public A airs and Crisis Communications in Florida.

LOBBYING FIRM OF THE YEAR Runner-Up

SBM Partners

For those who enjoy rooting for underdogs, this one’s for you.

SBM Partners, formerly Smith Bryan & Myers, always flies beneath the radar, quietly using their small but mighty team to deliver for clients. So it’s little wonder they finally landed in the runner-up spot for Lobbying Firm of the Year.

To understand why the firm’s recognition this year is so critical, you must first understand how honorees are chosen.

This is not an arbitrary process. Each year we get opinions from those in The Process, from lobby shops to inhouse staffers all the way to legislative leaders. Every single year, SBM Partners, or its previous iteration, landed in the top five. But because we only have so much space, the firm went without recognition, landing behind the No. 1 and 2 spots.

Maybe it was the firm’s rebrand, which coincided with the smart move to bring on former House Speaker Steve Crisafulli and merge with his former firm, Crisafulli Consulting. Or maybe it’s that firm President,  Jeff Hartley, is perhaps the most well-trusted lobbyist in Tallahassee, with arguably the strongest connections in the Senate.

Whatever the case, the recognition for this tiny but effective team — partner owners Hartley,  Teye Carmichael,  Lisa Hurley and Crisafulli, and partners  Parker Powell,  Jonathan Rees and David Daniel — was overdue.

“Among all the teams in The Process, SBM Partners really stands out — not just for their expertise and experience, but for their integrity. Jeff, Teye,

One of the best, yet humble, lobbying teams in Florida: Jonathan Rees, Jeff Hartley, Teye Carmichael , Steve Crisafulli, Lisa Hurley, Parker Powell, and David Daniel.

Lisa, Steve and their associates are some of the most trusted professionals in politics. They work to advance meaningful solutions, not check boxes,” said Senate Majority Leader Jim Boyd.

Senate Rules Chair  Kathleen Passidomo, herself a former Senate President, agrees.

“The team at SBM Partners brings insight, professionalism and purpose to the table. Their relationships in The Process are built on trust, not transactions,” she said.

SBM Partners boasts a wide range of clients in Florida and across the nation, including businesses in the automotive, health care, retail, telecommunications and tourism industries.

The firm was already a quiet powerhouse, regularly ranking high, but not too high, in quarterly compensation reports. Last year, before Crisafulli came on, the firm ranked just outside the top 10, at No. 11, with $1.64 million in pay. But bringing Crisafulli on board was game-changing.

He brought to the firm an extensive portfolio of clients across industries, including agriculture, energy, education and insurance.

Crisafulli served as House Speaker from 2014 to 2016. During that time, he spearheaded landmark water quality protection legislation and led on key issues in agriculture, business, aero-

space, education and health care. For the last decade, Crisafulli has consulted with, and advocated on behalf of, a diverse range of industries before Florida’s executive and legislative branches. Clients of SBM Partners have benefited from his three decades of business and legislative experience.

Hartley, meanwhile, has been a powerbroker in his own right. He was one of four Chairs of Gov.  Ron DeSantis’ second inaugural ball. He joined the likes of  Brian Ballard, the head of the international lobby giant Ballard Partners who has regular access to President  Donald Trump. Other Florida lobby icons,  Nick Iarossi of Capital City Consulting and Bill Rubin of Rubin, Turnbull & Associates, filled out the Chair positions. Simply put, Hartley wasn’t sitting at the kids’ table.

And even though SBM isn’t likely to be a top dog as it relates to earnings, it’s clear the firm will remain a respected, powerful entity that checks a lot of boxes for clients.

“There are lobbyists in Tallahassee who offer subject matter expertise. Some know and understand The Process. Others rely on personal relationships. Few teams offer all of the above to their clients, but SBM Partners is key among them,” House Rules Chair  Sam Garrison said.

“The team at SBM Partners brings insight, professionalism and purpose to the table. Their relationships in The Process are built on trust, not transactions.” -kathleen passidomo

LOBBYING FIRM OF THE YEAR BOUTIQUE

Good things come in small packages. While that’s a catch phrase often used to describe velvety boxes filled with blingy jewelry, it can just as easily describe RSA consulting, a boutique lobbying firm that, despite its size, packs a mighty punch.

You might not realize it by look-

RSA Consulting

ing at the massive list of wins the firm notched this Legislative Session, but it includes fewer than a dozen staffers. Under the guidance of firm President and CEO  Ron Pierce and Vice President and COO Natalie King, RSA brings home the budget and policy bacon for their clients year after year through a mix of

Left to right: Natalie King and Ron Pierce

lobbying prowess and good old-fashioned kindness.

“In an industry where the ends justifies the means, Ron has built RSA on the core values of honesty, integrity and a

tireless work ethic. I’m proud of his success and even more proud of the corporate culture he’s created along the way,” said Tom Lee, a former Senate President who helped Pierce get his start in the early 2000s when Pierce served as Lee’s policy advisor.

Decades later, Pierce has built a firm from the ground up that serves clients both statewide and at home, in Pierce’s Tampa Bay community.

This year, team RSA delivered big victories in the education space by successfully advocating to expand the state’s school readiness program, boosting charter school funding through legislation requiring school districts to proportionally share sales tax revenue based on enrollment, and increasing transparency in funding for certain apprenticeship and trade programs.

The firm also worked on behalf of Continuing Care Retirement Communities, along with Sen.  Jay Collins, Rep. Tom Fabricio and the Office of Insurance Regulation, to soften language in a bill aimed at reforming laws governing the communities, including in bankruptcy filings.

Locally, RSA furthered efforts this Session toward establishing a regional metropolitan planning organization in the Tampa Bay area and advocated against changes to the tourist development tax (TDT) that would have diverted funds to offset cuts to property taxes. The TDT plan never came to fruition.

And their work doesn’t stop at policy fights. Team RSA also enjoyed several budget wins, including securing rate increases for Florida’s Federally Qualified Health Centers, bringing the total increase, including federal dollars, to $30 million annually. They also secured funding for A Kid’s Place foster home ($500,000); and for Film Tampa Bay ($500,000) to produce an adaptation of the book “A Land Remembered” as a miniseries.

“Ron Pierce and the team at RSA Consulting are the gold standard in strategic advocacy,” said  Christina Barker, Chief of Staff to  Jeff Vinik and a partner at Catalyst Communications who has worked closely with the firm. “Their integrity, tireless work ethic, and deep understanding of Florida’s political and business landscape consistently deliver

results that make a lasting impact. Ron and Natalie lead with heart, purpose and an unwavering commitment to the communities they serve.”

Hillsborough County Property Appraiser  Bob Henriquez, whose Office is an RSA client, shared similar praise.

“Ron Pierce and RSA Consulting are an effective and exemplary firm that utilize a strategic approach to building relationships with their experienced lobbyists to navigate the complex landscape of policy and lawmaking, while always maintaining the highest moral and ethical standards. They do it the right way,” he said.

RSA celebrated its 15th anniversary last year, and is a firm to watch. The team continues to grow, meanwhile, with the addition this year of  Dewayne Mallory to lead its Local & Community Affairs arm, a key focus that sets RSA apart as a firm with strong local roots.

Runner-Up

LOBBYING FIRM OF THE YEAR BOUTIQUE

Walk into Public Affairs Consultants’ office in a residential neighborhood near the Capitol and it’s clear it’s different from some of the bigger players in Florida lobbying.

Public Affairs Consultants

The firm, run by  Jack and  Keyna Cory, doesn’t have a fancy restaurant on the first floor and isn’t among the giants along Monroe and Adams. Their office is close to the Capitol, yet a wel-

come escape from the political madness.

But the most notable difference is what you see as soon as you walk in the door: a roomful of toys and two happy children. The Corys and  Erin Daly

Left to right: Jack Cory, Keyna Cory, Erin Daly Ballas

Ballas make up a three-person shop in the historic 1912 Pichard House, and they’ve carved out room for Ballas’ son and daughter.

Family is a theme for the firm. They call their clients family, and Ballas says the Corys are like another set of grandparents to  Jett and  Dayton. And if you check out the “About Us” page on the firm’s website and click on “interns,” you’ll see the smiling kids.

“We consider our clients family. We have a propensity of adopting clients rather than being retained by them,” Jack Cory said. “All our clients are equal. We don’t consider one bigger or one smaller.”

And while that might sound folksy in a political world known more for ruthless tactics, the small firm also gets the job done.

Among key victories this year was a priority bill they tracked for a big new client — Miami-Dade Sheriff  Rosie Cortez-Stutz. The measure makes it a felony for unticketed fans to enter or refuse to leave large events.

It’s a response to the chaos at a Copa America soccer match last year in which huge mobs of ticketless fans crashed through security and swarmed into the Hard Rock Stadium, causing injuries, hysteria and delays at the event that sold 65,000 tickets. Gov.  Ron DeSantis signed the bill in May.

Among other wins is a bill requiring the Department of Environmental Protection to develop a waste reduction and recycling plan, which includes recommendations on recycling goals, creating markets for recyclables, educating the public and helping local governments with their programs.

A priority bill for another client, the Florida Nurses Association, passed in the final hours of the regular Session. It will strengthen accountability and oversight at nursing schools.

And while the state’s budget was still unsettled as of this writing, the team is still keeping a close eye on proviso and implementing language.

“Erin probably does more on the budget than any other firm in town, of

any size,” Jack Cory said. “She knows the budget better than anybody.”

Ballas said she reads every line in the budget and every word of proviso. She takes that role seriously.

Very seriously.

In 2017, the threat of a budget meltdown was resolved at the same time Ballas was going into labor with her first child.

“The epidural hit and I shot off like 15 emails,” Ballas said, including to then-Senate Appropriations Chair  Jack Latvala. She said Latvala responded, “Jack and Keyna said you were having a baby.” She replied, “I am, but I’ve got these four issues that you cannot forget.”

She later sent Latvala pics of little baby Dayton.

“It was the best budget year we’ve ever had,” she said with a laugh.

It’s what you might expect from a firm that feels like family.

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Adams Street Advocates is a boutique government relations rm that specializes in successfully helping businesses do business with government.

LOBBYIST OF THE

YEAR

Heather Turnbull

There are some lobbyists who will never stop working.  Heather Turnbull isn’t one of them.

Don’t take that the wrong way. She busts her ass all day, every day, all year long for her clients. So much so that she doesn’t have much time for doing a lot of the things normal people do on their time off.

So, some years from now, Turnbull will retire and focus more on dogs, cats, parakeets and any other animal that needs help while her colleagues grow old at the Capitol. Until then, she is a Tallahassee powerhouse and Influence Magazine’s lobbyist of the year, a tenacious, smart, relentless lobbyist who has earned a reputation as one of the best of the best.

“I can’t wait for what I consider my life to start, which will be after this,” Turnbull said with a laugh. “My dream is to retire at a reasonable age, to hand this over to all these young talented people. For me, I’m very satisfied with the life I’ve had here and enjoy it. I love watching people grow, love watching my friends have success and I just want peace and quiet and a bunch of animals.”

Turnbull began her career as a trial lawyer in the late 90s after graduating from the University of Arkansas and moving to Miami. It was a very male-dominated world.

“There would be lawyers who were like, ‘Hey Sugar! Are you lost?’ It was ridiculous,” she said. “I worked at an all-male firm and was really looking for some camaraderie and started volunteering at the guardian ad litem program.”

That’s when she met state Rep. Cindy Lerner, who brought Turnbull to Tallahassee to work as her legislative aide. Turnbull began working for  Bill Rubin in 2003 and he promoted her to managing partner of the firm in 2019.

“She is the epitome of a pro’s pro. She’s the top of the profession,” Rubin

said. “She doesn’t misdirect people, she won’t say something that she can’t back up with facts and I think all the legislators know that.”

When Turnbull’s time with Lerner was ending, Lerner called Rubin, he said. Lerner told him, “I’m going to do you a big favor. I think you ought to hire this woman. She’s unbelievable.”

But he didn’t. He did, though, keep an eye on her work. And then another friend in The Process told him, “you are an idiot; you need to hire her.”

“So finally I gave in and hired her and she lived up to the billing and then some,” Rubin said. “Her mind is so good, she can cover multiple things at one time.”

He said tenacious is a good word to describe her.

“In all instances, she does not want to lose. She does not ever take losing well,” Rubin said. “Whether it’s the budget, whether it’s health care. We’ve taken a lot of issues that we’ve had no business winning and she would just stay at it, and that tenaciousness is really what defines her. She keeps a very, very level head no matter what’s coming at her.”

Turnbull also earns the respect of her competition.

“I love working with Heather. I hate working against Heather because she’s such a “tenacious” advocate for her clients and she’s got amazing relationships with legislators, spends a lot of time fostering relationships and raising money,” said  Nick Iarossi. “She’s one of the most effective lobbyists in the Capitol by far.”

How tenacious? Iarossi says when he’s working with her for a shared client, lawmakers will wave a white flag.

“I’ve had legislators literally say to me, ‘I’ll be with you, but just don’t send Heather back in here. Just tell her I’m with you guys,’” Iarossi said. “It makes me laugh because it just shows the commitment and tenacity that she has

when she’s out there working.”

But being tenacious doesn’t mean being obnoxious.

“She handles it with class and dignity. She doesn’t ever take anything personally and is able to maintain friends not just in the Legislature, but among the lobbying corps she competes with,” Iarossi said.

A PET PROJECT

Turnbull is well known as an advocate for animals. It’s her passion. Iarossi recalled her taking on a bill to stop puppy mills. He represented pet store owners who were opposed to the bill.

“She was so relentless on that issue that several offices we went into said, ‘listen, I’m not opposed to what you guys are doing, but I can’t have Heather Turnbull come back in here because I’m afraid of what she’s going to do to me if I don’t support it. So I’m sorry, I have to be with her on that,’” he recalled.

Her love of animals is how she became a Boy Scout. She wanted to work at the Little Rock Zoo when she was in high school. But at the time, they’d only bring in students who were juvenile delinquents required to fulfill community service, or Boy Scouts.

“So they let me pay my membership to become a card carrying Boy Scout so I could go hang out with the animals,” she recalled.

Once Turnbull arrived in Tallahassee, she bought a large piece of property and turned it into a mini-animal rescue. She has four rescue dogs, three rescue cats and built an aviary that now houses 40 rescue parakeets.

She plans to grow that menagerie once she retires and envisions it becoming a sanctuary where people can drop off pets in need of a home.

“If I could have a whole farm, I would,” she said. “I went to law school because I wasn’t smart enough to get into veterinary school.”

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OF THE YEAR LOBBYISTS AGRICULTURE

AlexHaley and  Will Johnson’s work getting the Florida Farm Bill across the finish line was a long process — like, really long.

But time consuming work goes a lot quicker when you’re part of a good team. Haley and Johnson are just that.

“Alex and I have actually been friends since we met in college. We were college roommates back in the day,” Johnson said. “We’ve been talking about doing stuff like this together and being part of The Process and passing big legislation since we were sophomores.”

Both 20-somethings now work under Commissioner Wilton Simpson at the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). And both played vital roles in earning Gov. Ron De-

Alex Haley and Will Johnson

Santis’ signature on the Department’s premier legislative package in mid-May.

Haley, the Department’s Legislative Affairs Director, joined FDACS shortly after Simpson won election in 2022, starting as Deputy Legislative Affairs Director.

But  Kathy Mears, Simpson’s Chief of Staff, said it didn’t take long for her and other colleagues to discover the extent of Haley’s talent.

“One skill set that we did not know until he came on board: He is a policy genius,” Mears said. “He generally writes the first draft and works it through the policy people. He knows every line, every statute, every section. There is not a piece of the Farm Bill that Alex has not been involved in writing.”

Johnson seconded that praise.

“He’s just unbelievable,” Johnson added. “It’s a team effort, but this is his baby. It’s just so inspiring to see him work.”

But to hear Haley tell it, you’d think his role was much smaller. He uses phrases to describe himself like “backset observer,” playing “sidekick” and being a “utility player.” His humility speaks to Haley’s value as he serves as a driving force in the Department’s work.

“I would definitely give most of that credit to Kathy, the Commissioner, our Division Directors and our legal staff here. They knocked it out of the park with this one,” Haley said.

“If there’s anything that I’m proud of it’s the team that we have, and what we were able to accomplish getting that across the finish line.”

Left to right: Will Johnson and Alex Haley

The package was a major win for Simpson and his department. The legislation generated a lot of headlines for provisions banning additives in Florida’s water supply, most specifically fluoride. But it was far more wide-reaching, creating a statewide framework for housing legally verified agricultural workers, banning drones over farmland, upping resources for disaster recovery, boosting support for youth agricultural programs like the National FFA Organization and the 4-H Club, and more.

And perhaps the biggest win for the Department and farmers across the state was language that could bar plant-based “meat” and “milk” products from being marketed as the real thing.

Those restrictions don’t kick in right away, as 11 of the 14 Southern states must approve similar language first.

That’s where Johnson stepped in and stepped up. He joined FDACS in November 2024, when most of the bill language had already been written. He now serves as the lead on lobbying efforts in other states to reach that threshhold.

“If it’s just a state-by-state thing, then it gets very expensive for those suppliers or

those producers to change that label — one for Florida and one for Georgia and one for Alabama. It gets complicated, and that brings expenses and those expenses get passed down to consumers at the register. We want to be really cognizant of that and make sure we can do whatever we can in order to minimize that,” Johnson said.

He’s been coordinating with other states to give them what they need to align their language with Florida’s.

“We have had meetings with almost every state now, from their Commissioners to their Policy Directors, to make sure that we get the language correct.”

With staggered Session schedules in other states, Johnson said this work could be done within two years.

Both Haley and Johnson played other major roles as well, even if Johnson was a late addition.

“It’s hard when you have a very nice functioning team to bring in someone new,” Mears said. But she added that Johnson easily overcame that challenge. “He played a huge role in the advocacy. When members had questions, he would go answer them, find whatever informa-

tion was needed and work.”

“We wanted to make sure that everyone knew where we’re coming from,” Johnson explained. “We wanted to make sure that the Commissioner’s vision was articulated to them and make sure that we answered every question that they had, anything that they needed.”

Haley has also been a primary force in shaping The Process.

“We prepare a notebook for our sponsors and for the committee staff that pulls in a lot of the research that we had, the why, questions and answers,” Mears said.

“That is spearheaded by Alex Haley. He pulls all of that together and there’s not a comma that has not been reviewed, seen or placed by Alex.”

And coordinating with stakeholders is one of Haley’s favorite parts of the job.

“It’s one of the most fun things to do to honestly work with them — the people who know it, the people who actually practice it every day — and try to get some of the things that can help them across the finish line in the Legislature,” he said.

If that’s the bar, consider the mission accomplished this Session.

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The Florida Hospital Association advocates for Sunshine State hospitals and health care systems to support their ability to provide cutting-edge, innovative health care technology and treatments for Floridians. Modern, sophisticated, high-quality care close to home supports comprehensive patient care for the best outcomes.

Tripp Hunter and Jim Spratt

OF THE YEAR LOBBYISTS AGRICULTURE

The Florida Farm Bill was a major win this Session for Florida’s farming community. And that’s thanks in no small part to work done by  Tripp Hunter  of the Florida Farm Bureau and Jim Spratt of the Florida Ag Coalition.

Working on behalf of two of Florida’s biggest agriculture advocacy groups, the two had a natural ally in Agriculture Commissioner  Wilton Simpson, whose Department fought hard for the bill.

This Session will no doubt be remembered for its drama and animosity. But that only makes the success of the Farm Bill and these organizations stand out more. Passed in late April, the legislation landed on the Governor’s desk and was signed barely two weeks later. It became law nearly a full month before the budget was even passed.

Spratt, the Chair of the Florida Ag Coalition, previously served in the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ (FDACS) offices of Agriculture Water Policy and Environmental Policy. He later served as the Government Affairs Director for the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association.

He also lives with his family on a small farm in Northeastern Leon County, where they raise livestock. That gives him plenty of familiarity with issues Florida’s farmers face.

“Florida’s Farm Bill includes a myriad of provisions important to the agriculture industry, including requirements for housing legally verified agricultural workers, updates to the Agriculture and Aquaculture Producers Disaster Recovery Loan Program and clearer, more transparent product labeling standards, reinforcing what is and isn’t milk, meat, poultry and eggs,” Spratt said.

Left to right: Tripp Hunter and Jim Spratt

“These measures are important to the public, too, since Florida’s farms and ranches produce safe, wholesome and sustainable food and commodities, like foliage, for the Sunshine State and the nation.”

Spratt said his organization has been working on various disaster relief and workforce housing issues for multiple Sessions now. Efforts regarding product labeling and banning drones over farmland are newer initiatives, Spratt explained. His organization represents more than two dozen groups representing Florida’s farmers, ranchers and growers. That includes the Florida Farm Bureau.

Hunter, as the State Legislative Affairs Director at the Florida Farm Bureau Federation, took the lead on working with Simpson to make his priority legislation a success this Session.

That included not just addressing immediate needs, but looking to the future as well.

“The average age of a farmer in the United States is 58. That’s a fact we can’t ignore,” said Hunter, whose family owns a farm in Georgia, giving him per-

sonal experience with these issues.

On Hunter’s point about age, the legislative package exempts schools from certain local zoning rules to ensure they can offer agricultural spaces for the National FFA Organization and the 4-H Club, two organizations meant to build up a new crop of farmers.

“If we don’t bring in the next generation and give them the tools and opportunities to carry on their family’s operations, then we’re not just losing Florida farms; it’s a threat to our state and nation’s food security,” Hunter said.

“Thankfully, that’s something the Commissioner understands. We’re grateful for his vision and support in finding solutions for this crisis.”

Both Hunter and Spratt praised Simpson, as well as bill sponsors in the House and Senate. Sen.  Keith Truenow sponsored SB 700, the bill that passed the Legislature. Reps.  Kaylee Tuck and  Danny Alvarez were behind the House companion.

Spratt said they “truly went above and beyond to support this legislation, educating their respective colleagues

and addressing key components of the legislation to ensure its passage.”

And it pays to have a longtime farmer in Simpson leading FDACS. But with Florida’s farming community struggling due to a spate of major storms and environmental problems like citrus greening, it’s nevertheless pivotal to have advocates ready to take these issues to Tallahassee and convince lawmakers from all across the state see them as priorities.

“Their support means a lot to our producers who are working hard every day to put food on tables and supply essential commodities, ensuring Floridians and the nation have the resources they need to thrive,” Hunter said of Senate President  Ben Albritton  and House Speaker Daniel Perez

Florida’s Republican leaders had more disagreements this year than anyone has seen in the entire  Ron DeSantis  era. But one thing they agree on is that Florida’s farmers are worth protecting. And that’s due in no small part to the work of Hunter and Spratt, which will no doubt continue in the years ahead.

YEAR ASSOCIATION

OF THE

In a city full of advocates clamoring to be noticed, one organization has consistently risen above the noise — not just to be heard, but to make a difference. That voice belongs to the Florida Health Care Association (FHCA), and its yearslong track record of success has earned it recognition as INFLUENCE Magazine’s Golden Rotunda winner for Association of the Year.

FHCA has built its reputation through years of smart, strategic wins that have improved the lives of nursing home residents across the state. But this recognition is also a nod to the man at the helm: Emmett Reed, who for more than 16 years has led FHCA with heart, humility and an unwavering sense of purpose.

“FHCA has a well-earned reputation in the Capitol as a forward-thinking partner to keep Florida the gold standard for long-term care,” said Senate President  Ben Albritton. “When their team shows up with a problem, they also have a roadmap to a solution — and it’s no coincidence that Emmett Reed is at the center of that.”

Under Reed’s leadership, FHCA has transformed from a reactive trade group into a proactive policy powerhouse, representing more than 87% of Florida’s nursing homes. In a sector that often struggles to be understood, FHCA has given voice to caregivers, families and residents — elevating long-term care from a niche issue to a legislative imperative.

Reed credits that shift to persistence and people.

Florida Health Care Association

“We’ve built our credibility by listening, bringing real stories to the table, and working year-round to be part of the solution,” he said. “We couldn’t hope to achieve results without the commitment of our members, our staff and the incredible caregivers and residents we serve.”

Indeed, it’s hard to overlook the policy outcomes FHCA has helped deliver in recent years. From its pivotal role in developing Florida’s Medicaid Prospective Payment System to championing legislation that strengthens the long-term care workforce, the association is trusted by lawmakers and state agencies alike.

That trust has been tested — and affirmed — during times of crisis. When Hurricane Ian threatened Gulf Coast care facilities in 2022, FHCA was already on daily calls with the Division of Emergency Management and the Agency for Health Care Administration, ensuring residents were safely sheltered and cared for. When COVID brought chaos to longterm care in 2020, FHCA led with steady hands and clear communication, hosting more than 500 calls with providers, advocating for priority supplies for frontline caregivers, proposing safe visitation strategies and deploying vaccination clinics across the state.

“FHCA has been a model partner during emergencies and my 30-plus year friendship with Emmett Reed and his family gave me confidence that they could get things done during last year’s hurricane challenges,” said Rep. Jennifer Canady. “He’s built a team

that’s proactive, well-prepared, and always focused on the safety of Florida’s long-term care residents.”

And the association keeps an eye on the future — particularly when it comes to the workforce challenges facing the nursing home profession. With the launch of career pathways for Personal Care Attendants and Qualified Medication Aides, as well as new partnerships with technical schools and high school chapters of HOSA-Future Health Professionals, FHCA has built a talent pipeline to keep pace with the state’s growing elderly population.

“The health care workforce shortage is one of Florida’s biggest challenges,” said Rep.  Sam Garrison. “But FHCA hasn’t waited for someone else to fix it — they’ve rolled up their sleeves and led the way.

Despite the accolades that flow to FHCA and its leader, Reed remains grounded. His office may be five blocks from the Capitol, but his mission always leads him back to the bedside — to the people whose lives are shaped by the care they receive from the association’s members.

“What we do matters. The elderly, those undergoing rehabilitation therapy, and the people nearing the end of life — they deserve dignity, compassion, and the best we can give,” Reed said. “If we can help one resident live better, that’s worth fighting for.”

Top Row left to right: Deborah Franklin, Tom Parker, J. Emmett Reed, Toby Philpot, Mary Ann Obos. Bottom row left to right: Kristen Knapp, Michelle Mannheimer, Dawn Segler

Florida Natural Gas Association

In a state where energy demands are as dynamic as the weather, the Florida Natural Gas Association (FNGA) has consistently illuminated the path forward, ensuring Florida remains powered and prepared.

Under the leadership of Executive Director  Dale Calhoun, FNGA’s strategic advocacy and legislative successes have earned it recognition as a formidable force in state policy.

Calhoun joined FNGA nine years

ago, bringing expertise and leadership in disaster preparedness and response. He has been actively involved with the Governor’s emergency response team during natural disasters, coordinating relief efforts and ensuring the continuity of service. And his efforts are not limited to the legislative arena; they extend to building coalitions, educating the public and engaging with regulatory bodies to ensure Florida’s energy policies reflect the state’s unique needs and priorities.

“Natural gas is not just an energy source; it’s a cornerstone of Florida’s economic vitality and disaster resilience,” Calhoun said. “Our mission is to ensure that policymakers understand its value — not just in terms of affordability, but also in reliability and sustainability.”

In the 2025 Legislative Session, FNGA’s influence was unmistakable. The association was instrumental in the passage of legislation that reinforces the state’s commitment to a diverse and resilient energy future. One bill will protect consumer choice by preventing restrictions on fuel sources or appliances, helping keep energy affordable and reliable. Another will strengthen penalties for attacks on utility workers, ensuring better protection for those who maintain essential infrastructure. A third measure will support investment in renewable natural gas, opening the door to more innovation and sustainable energy options across the state.

Left to right: Justin Thames, Dale Calhoun, Victoria Price Langan

While Calhoun spends countless hours at the Capitol, bringing clarity, compassion and reason to every issue, he insists advocacy for the industry is a team effort.

“Our members are the backbone of FNGA, and we work together to be strong voices in their communities and at the Capitol,” he said.

Among the FNGA membership, two standout advocates this year are  Victoria Price Langan, Governmental Affairs Director for Chesapeake Utilities Corporation, and  Justin Thames, TECO Energy’s Director of State Government Relations.

“Victoria and Justin each bring deep policy expertise and are loyal to the success of their companies,” Calhoun said. “They’re sharp, strategic and relentless in their pursuit of good policy. I’m lucky to have them as allies in The Process.”

At TECO Energy, Thames is responsible for cultivating and managing government relationships at the state level, bringing nearly 20 years of experience in public policy, advocacy, government affairs, regulatory efforts, and political and legislative strategy. But it’s his tireless hustle, tenacious follow-through and

solid, steady counsel that have led to his standout results.

“I’m proud of everything FNGA, the Legislature and the Governor did this year to protect our utility workers and increase the ability for Floridians to choose natural gas for their homes,” Thames said. “Dale’s leadership really sets the table for us to bring our company’s experiences and best practices to the conversation.

At Chesapeake Utilities Corporation, Price Langan develops and maintains key government relationships across multiple states. Her role involves advocating for policies that support the company’s business units and promoting renewable energy initiatives, such as renewable natural gas, as viable energy sources for Florida’s infrastructure. Price Langan’s unmatched work ethic, persistence in finding solutions, approachable nature and commitment to having calm, factbased discussions on policy and environmental sustainability initiatives have made her a valuable asset to FNGA and the natural gas industry.

Beyond policy, FNGA emphasizes the multifaceted advantages of natural gas.

From its affordability and efficiency to its role in reducing carbon footprints and enhancing energy security, natural gas is integral to Florida’s energy strategy. The association’s initiatives promote the use of natural gas in various sectors, including residential, commercial and industrial applications, demonstrating its versatility and importance in the state’s energy mix.

“When we speak to lawmakers, it’s not just about policy — we’re sharing real-world stories about day-to-day operations and how natural gas powers Florida’s homes, businesses and critical infrastructure,” Price Langan said. “That’s what makes our message resonate.”

FNGA’s legislative victories underscore the association’s proactive approach to policy — addressing current needs while anticipating future challenges. As Florida continues to navigate the complexities of energy demand, environmental considerations and disaster preparedness, FNGA remains a steadfast advocate for policies that ensure a reliable, resilient and sustainable energy future for all Floridians.

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APPROPRIATIONS

David Browning, Anna DeCerchio, Mercer Fearington,

Nicole Kelly and

Sydney Ridley

In the ever-shifting world of state politics, budget wins aren’t handed out, they’re earned through strategic foresight, airtight relationships and a deep understanding of how Tallahassee really works. At The Southern Group, Florida’s largest lobbying firm, the legislative appropriations team has made winning under pressure look almost routine.

The TSG team delivers Session after Session, year after year,  even when the odds are stacked against them. And this past Session was no exception.

“In working with this team over the years, I’ve seen firsthand their professionalism, preparation and genuine commitment to getting things done,” said Sam Garrison, Florida House Rules Chairman. “They’re a team you can count on, no matter how tough the challenge.”

With legislative leaders laser-focused on cutting spending, securing

funding was a challenge, to say the least. Yet through all the red ink and sharp pencils, The Southern Group guided their clients to real wins in one of the most fiscally constrained environments Florida has seen in recent years.

Led by seasoned strategists David Browning, Nicole Kelly, Anna DeCerchio, Mercer Fearington and Sydney Ridley, the team is known for its deep relationships, unmatched competence and strategic thinking.

“They don’t just know The Process,” said  Jim Boyd, Florida Senate Majority Leader. “They know the people, the pressure points, and the politics. That’s what gets results.”

Browning, one of the most respected appropriations strategists in the state, exemplifies the long-term approach that defines this team. Several of Browning’s clients have been with him for more than

15 years, a testament to their trust in him and the results he delivers.

What sets this team apart goes beyond technical expertise. Their strength lies in the relationships they have cultivated with government decision-makers, and the thoughtful approach behind those connections. Their effectiveness is amplified by the depth and reach of The Southern Group’s extensive roster of lobbyists across Florida, which ensures every key legislator and decision-maker in government is engaged and informed on their clients’ issues.

Their long-term mindset drives their work throughout the entire year. When the Legislative Session ends, the team immediately shifts focus. Summer and Fall are dedicated to supporting campaigns, strategic planning and collaborating with clients to identify high-impact projects that will align with the next year’s legislative priorities.

“The most meaningful wins are the ones that were built over many months or years, not just a last-minute negotiation,” said Fearington. “We take the time to build the case, educate key players and demonstrate the impact.”

Kelly and Ridley, both recognized for their strategic insight and strong relationships, point to the firm’s collaborative culture as a reason for the team’s success.

“We don’t operate in silos,” Ridley noted. “Our strength is in our network, both within the firm and throughout the Capitol.”

DeCerchio, who approaches complex appropriations issues with a policy-first perspective, added, “Access alone isn’t enough. You need to recognize what makes a project worthwhile, how to present it, and how it fits within the broader policy and fiscal context.”

While many lobbying firms are adapting to tighter fiscal constraints and managing clients’ expectations, The Southern Group’s appropriations team continues to advance key initiatives. Their achievements are not isolated successes. Instead, they reflect a disciplined approach built on foresight, rigor and relationships forged through consistent effort every day, year after year.

In Tallahassee, that kind of reliability stands out.

Left to right: Nicole Kelly, Anna DeCerchio, David Browning, Sydney Ridley Mercer Fearington, Jr.

Runner-Up

APPROPRIATIONS

OF THE YEAR LOBBYIST

Chris Schoonover managed nearly $1 billion in appropriations for Capital City Consulting this Legislative Session, successfully advocating for funding across a variety of sectors, including transportation, technology, health care, education and the environment.

That makes him among the most effective appropriations lobbyists this year, and perhaps going back a few years.

“Chris is one of the best lobbyists I’ve ever encountered in The Process,” said Nick Iarossi, Capital City Consulting co-owner and co-founder. “When it comes to budget, no one comes close to his capabilities. He is a master of his craft. At the same time, he manages to be an excellent husband, father and friend. A remarkable guy.”

Schoonover, a partner in the firm, specializes in state appropriations, as well as on issues and funding related to health and human services, higher education, and information technology. He also shares expertise on gaming and regulation, perhaps one of the most complex policy areas in the state.

A former staff attorney for the House, Schoonover approaches his role in The Process by working hard and always employing humility, said Rep. Lawrence McClure, the House budget chief through next year.

“He keeps his head down and grinds. His word is his bond in a town that trades on information,” McClure said.

A self-described budget leader, Schoonover runs point on coordinating budget requests and related work for all firm members, and it’s no easy feat. It requires having his finger on the pulse of all of the most up-to-date budget information and keeping that trove of knowledge organized by project silo with needed details.

For some, it would be a tedious task to be avoided. For Schoonover, it’s just part of his arsenal.

“Some people love fishing, some love

Chris Schoonover

traveling. Chris loves both, but he loves budget conference more,” Capital City Consulting co-owner and co-founder Ron LaFace said.

On top of keeping tabs on the numbers, and sometimes crunching them, Schoonover also helps firm members track which committee Chairs or staff may have questions or other needs related to funding requests or policy priorities.

The firm largely credits Schoonover with its consistent budget success for its clients, with several firm members noting his commanding presence throughout the budget process and the rest of Session.

For him, it’s about confirming that

even the tiniest detail is accounted for, and ensuring all of the nitty gritty tidbits are shared with the appropriate person, be that other firm members or clients, on issues ranging from filing deadlines to funding form request hiccups.

Through his diligence, firm partners are able to advocate for any project at a moment’s notice, without missing a beat.

You’d be hard-pressed to find a lobbyist in Tallahassee who doesn’t work hard or who isn’t well prepared. But Schoonover’s relentless attention to detail and commitment to helping his colleagues remain apprised of anything that may come up sets him apart, particularly in the budget process.

G R A S S R O O T S

A D V O C A C Y

C O R P O R A T E A N D P O L I T I C A L

C O M M U N I C A T I O N S

S T O R Y T E L L I N G

E X P E R T S

C h r i s t i n a J o h n s o n

P r e s i d e n t c h r i s t i n a @ o n 3 p r . c o m

LOBBYING DUO OF THE YEAR

Theyshare a sign and, sometimes, it feels like they share a brain.

Jeff Johnston and Amanda Stewart, the President and CEO, respectively, of their firm, Johnston & Stewart, co-founded the firm together. To be sure, they divide and conquer. But even if one is taking point on a policy issue while the other leads on a budget priority for a client, talking to one feels like talking to the other.

It’s that sort of team mentality that sets the duo apart from others. They aren’t just a team together. They’re a team with their clients, all the stakeholders they must engage with on behalf of their clients, and even other lobbyists.

“Jeff Johnston and Amanda Stewart aren’t just top-tier lobbyists — they’re trusted partners and close friends,” said  Heather Turnbull of Rubin Turnbull & Associates. “We’ve stood with them in the toughest Capitol fights, and they go all in, every time.”

“Their deep relationships, built on integrity and relentless follow-through, make them powerful advocates. Whether the issue is complex or fast-moving, Jeff and Amanda fight smart, fight hard, and always deliver,” she added.

In this year alone, the two notched win after win, whether it was securing record funding for Florida State University, helping to successfully eliminate the aviation fuel tax in Florida, expanding charter schools, or ensuring access to life-saving AED devices in schools to protect students, faculty and visitors in the event of a cardiac emergency.

The list of legislative and budget victories Johnston and Stewart scored this year are too many to list. The team had its most successful funding year yet, securing critical funding for the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Manatee and Palm Beach counties, the cities of Clearwater and Miami, ZooTampa, and several behavioral health facilities and parenting programs.

Johnston and Stewart were also instrumental in securing $30 million in the budget for pediatric cancer care and

Jeff Johnston and Amanda Stewart

research through their representation of three of the four specialty children’s hospitals in the state.

And on that note, the lobbying partners also secured a 7.5% funding increase for Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care centers, which allow kids to socialize with peers while still receiving top notch care for high acuity medical needs.

Other wins include successfully getting language included in this year’s tax package extending property tax exemptions in the Live Local Act to land used for affordable housing and leased from a land trust owned by a housing finance authority. The provision directly impacts Habitat for Humanity, one of Johnston and Stewart’s clients.

And on behalf of Charter Communications/Spectrum, another firm client, Johnston and Stewart successfully advocated for a measure that creates a new

Utility Relocation Fund to help cover the cost of moving infrastructure during public projects, a measure that slashes red tape and was a priority for Charter.

“Jeff and Amanda’s success, at least in part, comes from their ability to be honest, and constantly complement each other’s strengths,” said Rep.  Lawrence McClure, who, as Chair of the Appropriations Committee this year, led budget negotiations.

“And just as importantly,” he added, “they prioritize their team, building a firm presence that consistently delivers wins for the clients and issues they serve, while maintaining positive relationships with all those in The Process.”

Session may be over for this year, but you can bet that the work at Johnston & Stewart is not. No doubt, this dynamic duo is already hard at work strategizing for committee weeks and next year’s Session.

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Top: Tim Stapleton Bottom: Left to right: James McFaddin, Alan Abramowitz, Jon Rees

PHOTO:

HEALTH CARE

OF THE YEAR LOBBYISTS

In2022, a Charlotte County family with an autistic child sought refuge at a public shelter during Hurricane Ian. Once inside, the noise, commotion and activity overstimulated the child to the point where the parents opted for a different plan: riding out the storm in their car in the parking lot outside.

“That just struck me like a ton of bricks,” Senate President  Ben Albritton said.

In the months that followed, he did a lot of reading and learning about autism spectrum disorder. He became an advocate, and this year, legislation to help people with autism and their families was one of the health care highlights of Session.

Albritton gave a big hat tip to four lobbyists who helped shepherd through a major bill, SB 112, that’s now law. It expands services for children with autism and creates new grants for education programs. The law also sets new training standards for educators and provides grants for charter schools that serve autistic children and authorizes money for summer camps and other programs.

Those four lobbyists —  Tim Stapleton,  Alan Abramowitz,  Jon Rees , and  James McFaddin — are the Golden Rotunda Award recipients for Health Care Lobbyists of the Year.

“All of them have a great heart for people, all of them certainly a great heart for families that have been impacted by autism,” Albritton said. “When you are advocating for families that are impacted by autism, that is as honorable as it comes. In my opinion, that’s doing the Lord’s work. I have a high regard and high respect for each of those individuals.”

Sen. Gayle Harrell sponsored the bill, while Rep. Randy Maggard carried the House companion. But several other bills dealing with autism also are going into law. Among them are measures that

Autism Advocates

create a workforce credentialing system to help students with autism find jobs; address education about developmental disabilities and bullying in schools; create an alert system for missing autistic people; and streamline and increase oversight to make programs for autistic people more accessible.

“When you look at these bills as a whole, the Legislature really did a lot to make the lives of people with autism and their families much better, starting with education, but then awareness and safety. It was really a banner year,” said Stapleton, whose family moved from Tallahassee to Jupiter so their son could attend a charter school for autistic students.

Stapleton works with the Arrow Group and represents the Els for Autism Center of Excellence, founded by Hall of Fame golfer  Ernie Els. His advocacy for people with autism is deeply personal. His family had the resources to move hundreds of miles away to help their son. But he realizes not every family can do the same, which is why he hopes SB 112 will spur the creation of new schools and programs to help more people.

Stapleton lobbied for the Florida Medical Association for more than two decades and saw many contentious fights over issues like medical malpractice and insurance company battles.

Now that he’s focused on autism, he’s finding less fighting and more coming together over an issue that affects so many families.

‘I’ve never felt better about what I do for a living than the way I have the last few years,” he said. “I can see where the legislation that passes is going to make a difference in the lives of families.”

One of the highlights of SB 112 for Harrell is the eligibility expansion for home-based services for autistic preschoolers to help them prepare for the transition to school.

“It was a very good year for families with children with autism and it’s just the beginning. We’re going to keep on improving the programs and making sure that we’re getting the services out there for these students” Harrell said.

Like Stapleton, McFaddin has been involved in bitter health care battles. He handles all the health care clients for The Southern Group, including Autism Speaks, a national advocate for people with autism spectrum disorder.

He, too, finds working on autism bills more satisfying than most health care legislation.

“Some of that can be very technical, very regulatory and so it’s fun to be part of something that’s got such a great mission like Autism Speaks and that really means a lot to children and mothers and fathers and family members,” he said.

It helps to have bipartisan support. It also helped that Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez were on board.

“Leadership in the House and Senate both have connections to people with autism and other disabilities and I think you see why it’s been such a top priority,” said Abramowitz, who recently left his position as CEO of The Arc of Florida to start his own firm, Right Field Strategies. “It’s been great working with Albritton and Perez. I feel like they’re part of the advocacy team.”

The victories are particularly noteworthy in a year when there was a lot of tension at the Capitol. Lawmakers were forced to go into June to try to resolve the budget. That’s what drew most of the headlines during the tumultuous 60 days and its subsequent overtime.

“We tend to focus on the negatives, right?” Stapleton said. “There’s a lot of angst this Session, there’s a lot of focus on areas where they couldn’t find an agreement and they were fighting, but here’s a really great example of the Legislature getting it right.”

HEALTH CARE

LOBBY FIRM

Johnson & Blanton OF THE YEAR

Whenit comes to health care lobbying in Florida, Johnson & Blanton isn’t just a player, they’re the blueprint. And now, they’re also INFLUENCE Magazine’s 2025 Health Care Lobbying Firm of the Year.

With decades of institutional experience and a client roster that spans hospitals, hospices, insurers, and specialty providers, the firm has long been synonymous with getting things done in one of Tallahassee’s most complex and competitive sectors.

That consistency starts at the top. Jon Johnson, a former Director of Government Relations at the Florida Medical Association, and Travis Blanton, who served as Chief of Staff at the Agency for Health Care Administration under Gov.  Jeb Bush, have spent decades shaping the state’s health care policy landscape.

Together, they’ve built a firm known less for flash than for follow-through. Their style is sharp, strategic, and steady — the kind of presence you want when the temperature rises in a committee room or, as was the case this year, when keeping tabs on the budget required the endurance of a marathoner.

In a year thick with health care policy and political crosswinds, Johnson & Blanton once again proved why they’re the first — and often the only — call industry heavyweights make when they need something done. These weren’t flashy headlines; they were targeted, client-driven wins that required steady hands, sharp thinking, and good timing.

Look no further than SB 944.

It didn’t make front-page news, but it mattered to a lot of psychologists dealing with the fallout from managed care

clawbacks. The bill more than halved the look-back window on claims, giving providers a level of predictability afforded to other providers but which they had been missing for years. Quiet, precise, and impactful — just the way Team J&B likes it.

Then there’s HB 647, which gave advanced practice nurses the authority to sign death certificates in hospice settings. It was the kind of change that left many wondering why it hadn’t been law for years. The result? One less pressure point on an already strained physician workforce, and less time spent waiting on paperwork for grieving families. Johnson & Blanton has a knack for making substantive reforms look like common sense, and HB 647 was one of several bills this Session they successfully framed as no-brainers.

That instinct showed up again with HB 519, which authorized paramedics to administer controlled substances in emergency settings. Like the hospice bill, it left many in health care circles asking why this wasn’t already on the books, and proved yet again that Johnson & Blanton are masters in framing issues for their clients.

SB 68 began as a cleanup bill for Health Facilities Authorities financing rules. But it turned into something bigger: a last-minute amendment that clarified a costly fentanyl testing requirement for hospitals. The language came in late, but it landed clean, and saved time and money system-wide. Hospitals didn’t even know how much they needed the fix until it showed up in final form.

But perhaps no win speaks louder than HB 1103. The bill expanded managed care access for Floridians with in-

tellectual and developmental disabilities. That alone would make it notable.

But it was also a top priority for House Speaker  Daniel Perez, who spent this Session in a high-profile feud with Gov.  Ron DeSantis, whose veto pen has taken down plenty of policy priorities over far less.

That HB 1103 got signed — without ceremony, without noise, and without the usual veto drama — is a testament to just how skillfully Johnson & Blanton navigated the issue. The bill means real care for some of Florida’s most vulnerable residents. Would it have survived

without Team J&B’s help? Maybe. Would IDD health care advocates want to take that chance? Hardly.

And not every win came with a bill number.

Team J&B also tucked key fixes into broader legislation: securing grant eligibility for a private medical school, clarifying a prescribing question for hospice providers, and preserving the regulatory board for Florida’s Athletic Trainers. It’s the kind of work that doesn’t get a press release but keeps programs alive.

That level of versatility comes from the firm’s deep bench.  Darrick McGhee

Sr. is known for his ability to connect mission-oriented clients with policymakers across ideological lines — a skill rooted in years of public service and community leadership. Meanwhile, Marnie George’s roots in education policy — including time with the State University System — give Johnson & Blanton a real edge for clients working where health care and education intercept. She knows how the levers work and who to call when things get complicated. Their client list reads like a who’s

who of Florida health care: The Florida Hospital Association, Moffitt Cancer Center, BayCare, the Florida Council for Behavioral Healthcare, and many more. What these clients have in common isn’t just their sector — it’s their need for precision, for stability, and for someone who knows how to finish.

There are plenty of capable health care lobbyists in Tallahassee. But Johnson & Blanton is the yardstick. In a Session full of noise, they didn’t just show up, they closed.

Left to right: Marnie George, Jon Johnson, Darrick D. McGhee, Sr., Travis Blanton

LOBBYIST OF THE YEAR IN-HOUSE

Albie Kaminsky

The nominations for  Albie Kaminsky for the In-House Lobbyist of the Year award came in by the dozens, a testament to his exemplary work in advancing broadband accessibility through significant legislation and strategic coalition-building.

This past year, Kaminsky, Senior Director of State Government Affairs for Charter Communications, played a pivotal role in supporting groundbreaking legislation introduced by Rep.  Will Robinson and Sen.  Stan McClain — HB 703 and SB 818 —  that establishes a new Utility Relocation Fund. The fund is designed to facilitate the relocation of infrastructure during public projects, and its establishment is a significant stride toward enhancing broadband access throughout Florida.

Kaminsky’s approach to advocacy, particularly for this legislation, demonstrates a deep commitment to collaboration and strategic foresight. The complexities involved in the initiative required not only an understanding of the legislative process but also the political landscape and the various stakeholder interests at play. Working closely with Group Vice President  Marva Johnson, Kaminsky displayed exceptional lobbying acumen, navigating the intricacies of the initiative with remarkable skill.

Despite clear benefits of the proposed legislation, Kaminsky faced initial resis-

tance from local governments, who were concerned about the implications of relocating utility infrastructure and how to pay for it. His role in overcoming this challenge cannot be overstated.

Kaminsky’s relentless efforts to garner support from local authorities and other stakeholders were crucial in transforming skepticism into advocacy. His ability to engage traditionally powerful lobbying interests — particularly utility companies such as Florida Power & Light (FPL), Duke Energy, and TECO — into a neutral stance on a bill that was titled “Utility Relocations” is a testament to his strategic negotiating skills. This challenging feat underscores Kaminsky’s commitment to fostering collaboration and achieving workable solutions for all parties involved.

The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Robinson, emphasized the significance of Kaminsky’s achievement, noting passage of the legislation amid scrutiny and opposition speaks volumes about Kaminsky’s dedication and effectiveness as a lobbyist. His collaborative approach and tenacity in advocating for broadband expansion have garnered praise from various quar-

ters, including the Governor’s office. One official there, who Kaminsky worked closely with, referred to the legislation as a “perfect bill,” highlighting Kaminsky’s exceptional skill in harmonizing diverse interests toward a common goal.

Moreover, Kaminsky’s efforts extend beyond mere advocacy; he possesses a unique ability to translate complex legislation into actionable strategies that resonate with both lawmakers and the public. His commitment to enhancing connectivity for Floridians is reflected in his unwavering resolve to see the successful passage of this year’s legislation, which not only streamlines processes by reducing red tape but also significantly impacts internet service providers (ISPs) seeking to expand broadband access across the state.

In the context of a rapidly evolving digital landscape, the importance of broadband accessibility is paramount. Kaminsky recognizes that rural access to high-speed internet is essential for economic development, education, and overall quality of life for Floridians. His work in securing this legislation sets a new benchmark for effective advocacy in the state and paves the way for future

initiatives aimed at furthering broadband expansion. Florida is now the first state in the nation to have created a relocation fund.

Kaminsky’s impact on Florida’s broadband landscape through his lobbying efforts is profound and commendable. His strategic vision, collaborative spirit, and unwavering resolve make him undeniably deserving of the In-House Lobbyist of the Year award.

Kaminsky is not only enhancing connectivity for Floridians but is also setting a standard for effective advocacy that future lobbyists can aspire to. His remarkable achievements in navigating complex legislative environments and fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders position him as a leader in the field and an invaluable asset to Florida’s broadband expansion efforts.

Consider that prior to joining Charter Communications, Kaminsky served as Chief Legislative Aide to now-Senators, Jay Trumbull and Jim Boyd, who just so happen to be the next two Senate Presidents. Something tells us Kaminsky’s influential work may just be getting started.

Carolyn Johnson and Frank Walker

The Florida Chamber of Commerce scored a host of wins this Legislative Session, from a tightening up of citizen-led ballot initiatives to continued improvement in affordable housing-related policy. Behind those wins are two sometimes unsung heroes at the Chamber.

Frank Walker leads the Chamber’s political and lobbying operations as Executive Vice President of Governmental and Political Relations, while  Carolyn Johnson  works under him as Vice President of Government Affairs, overseeing more than 30 staff members, contract lobbyists and issue experts.

Together, they form a powerhouse team that relentlessly works with lawmakers and stakeholders to ensure pro-business policy gets passed in the Capitol, while working to block issues the group sees as business busting.

Under their leadership, the Chamber testified more than 150 times this Legislative Session on bills impacting job creators. The group also analyzed some 5,000 votes taken on bills, the budget and more this year. That will form the basis of its annual Legislative Report Card often used as a benchmark in elections to differentiate between incumbents who step up to the plate for business and those who are blocking progress.

“Frank and Carolyn engage in yearslong strategies that coordinate recruiting and electing pro-jobs candidates, significant public relations and grassroots building, engaging General Counsels in best practices,” said Florida Chamber of Commerce President and CEO  Mark Wilson, adding that the duo then works to build a coalition of “like-minded advocates to get results.”

Among their biggest wins this Session is the passage of a bill (HB 1205) amending Florida’s process for citizen-led ballot initiatives. The measure requires petition gatherers who collect more than 25 signed petitions, excluding those from themselves or immediate family members, to register with the state as a petition circulator and take a two-hour online training. The legislation also shortens the timeline to turn in signed petitions from 30 days to

just 10, and adds stiffer penalties for petition sponsors who violate the rules.

Supporters, including most Republicans and the Chamber, argue the measure reduces the possibility of fraud and protects Florida’s Constitution from out-ofstate interests and outside influence. The bill was proposed after two controversial amendments failed in 2024: Amendment 3 to legalize recreational pot and Amendment 4 to enshrine abortion access into the state constitution. While the measures failed, both earned more than 50% of the vote, narrowly missing Florida’s already high-bar of 60% approval needed to pass.

Meanwhile, the Chamber also celebrated wins on other priorities, including addressing affordable workforce housing through additions to the previously passed Live Local Act; creating more certainty in the permitting process; increasing access to early learning and child care; boosting work-based learning and apprenticeship opportunities; expanding relationships in space and aerospace research; proposing a constitutional amendment on the 2026 ballot to eliminate tax on agriculture equipment; and promoting new renewable energy sources to reduce the state’s reliance on foreign oil.

The Chamber was also a major proponent for eliminating the state’s business rent tax, which made it into the state budget in the 11th hour.

And the wins weren’t always legislative victories. The Chamber, under Walker and Johnson, also successfully batted back or mitigated efforts that would create regulatory uncertainty or increase costs on businesses and families. That includes helping to block proposed legislation that would have walked back some provisions of tort reform in 2022 and 2023.

That only scratches the surface.

“Successes under Frank and Carolyn’s leadership would take days to list, literally,” Wilson suggested.

It might be their robust backgrounds.

Before joining the Chamber, Walker worked for more than a decade in Washington, serving two U.S. Representatives and two U.S. Senators. He’s worked for a

Florida Governor and previously served as Chief of Staff to U.S. Rep.  Daniel Webster. He earned extensive policy experience in his various roles, including on energy and natural resources, the environment, agriculture and transportation, as well as key knowledge of parliamentary procedure gleaned from work as an associate to the House Rules Committee.

Johnson, meanwhile, serves as an expert for the Chamber on tort issues, workers’ compensation, taxation and insurance. She joined the Chamber in 2013 after serving as a District Administrator and Legislative Assistant in the Florida House and working as a Deputy Campaign Manager for a constitutional amendment campaign.

“Frank has helped build one of the most sophisticated, successful government affairs advocacy and political operations anywhere in America. Frank knows when to lead and when to empower and support others,” Wilson said.

“Carolyn’s background in working in the Legislature and being an expert on issues ranging from the complexities of property insurance and tax policy to economic development and legal reform give her the insight and know-how to build winning strategies and coalitions that get the job done almost every time,” Wilson added.

While they are aces professionally, the Chamber also is a sort of family for the power duo. Asked what stands out about Walker and Johnson outside of their work accomplishments, coworkers noted Johnson’s dedication to her dad, spending time in the mountains each year with him. They also described Jonnson as a dedicated friend.

“She works hard but manages to spend time with those close to her, making time for weddings and more,” Wilson said.

Walker, meanwhile, is a family man whose faith is important to him.

“One thing that makes Frank Walker so successful in the political and advocacy game isn’t just his experience and knowhow, it’s the fact that he’s grounded in knowing his family and his faith are his real foundation,” Wilson said.

Scott Ross

Think of  Scott Ross as the quarterback for Capital City Consulting (CCC). As Managing Partner, he oversees the day-to-day, much like any other managing partner role at a law or accounting firm. But it’s a little different with a lobby shop, because lobbyists by nature aren’t likely to accept any answer they don’t want to hear, no matter how set in stone it might be.

So here is Ross, a seasoned lobbyist with well over a decade of experience under his belt, not just calling plays at CCC, but also coaching others on the ace lobbying team through strategic decisions and political conundrums, lending counsel on challenging cases, and bringing in reinforcements from within the firm to help when needed.

Ross has been with CCC since 2015, and was elevated to Managing Partner in 2022.

Before entering Florida’s lobby corps, Ross served as a Deputy Secretary at the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, which has informed his lobbying expertise in policy related to gaming and other regulated industries.

Adding to that expertise, Ross’ résumé also includes working as the director of government relations for one of the world’s largest gaming and entertainment companies, Las Vegas Sands.

His experience translates well for CCC, with Ross’ substantial book of clients helping to grow the firm and his vast experience offering lobbying wins from policy to budget.

OF THE YEAR PARTNER MANAGING

“All lobbyists have unique styles that work in this profession, and Scott’s is being a trusted advisor to many principals from both the public and private sectors.” CCC co-founder  Ron LaFace  said. “Scott is also able to make the most of the ever shifting political dynamics during legislative or agency fights; he sees opportunity better than most others.”

Speaking with Ross’ firm colleagues, one trait comes up over and over: a quiet patience that helps people — whether clients or coworkers — feel heard. His approach helps the firm address issues with pragmatism top of mind. To CCC co-founding member  Nick Iarossi, he’s just as much Professional Coach as he is Managing Partner.

“People inside and out of government view Scott as their consigliere. He is one of the most trusted and strategic advisors I’ve ever met. It’s the same way in our firm. Scott has a special way with people and it keeps our offices firing on all cylinders and operating at full throttle all the time,” Iarossi said.

Ross is a graduate of Florida State University and Nova Southeastern University law school. His experience goes back to the end of his educational career, when he worked as a lobbyist for the Florida Student Association, representing the interests of more than 300,000 students attending state universities at the state and federal levels.

“In lobbying there are three types of people who thrive: policy wonks who have an undisputed grasp of law and its implications, political operators who know how to pull the levers of power, and those who are just fun to be around and build relationships. Scott Ross is one of the few people in Tallahassee who operate in all three spheres,” political consultant Brad Herold said.

“His knowledge of policy, his grasp of the political landscape and his ability to build relationships with the most important people in Florida politics has made him the UPS of Florida lobbying … he always delivers.”

OF THE YEAR LOBBYIST EDUCATION

Andreina Figueroa

Chances are, if a charter school-focused bill made it across the finish line this year,  Andreina Figueroa had a hand in it.

A seasoned advocate with deep roots in Florida politics, Figueroa began her government career in 1999 as an aide to then-Gov.  Jeb Bush, whom she later

worked for as a Special Assistant, and under Gwen Margolis on the Miami-Dade County Commission.

Today, through her company, ADF Consulting, she’s known as one of Tallahassee’s most knowledgeable voices on education policy.

Figueroa was instrumental this Ses-

sion in advancing HB 443, a marquee charter school bill.

Among other things, the measure expanded enrollment caps for charter schools, prohibited school districts from imposing earlier audit deadlines on charters, enabled charter governing boards to adopt their own student codes

of conduct and allowed high-performing schools to assume the charter of another in their district.

It also included new flexibility for virtual charter students to participate in school sports, one of many provisions Figueroa helped shape behind the scenes.

Work on HB 443 started last year at the end of the 2024 Session, and securing the right sponsors was key. She found excellent champions in Sen.  Ana Maria Rodriguez, a charter school parent, and Rep. John Snyder, who has served on past education committees.

Figueroa also credited Senate President  Ben Albritton’s office, and House education panel Chairs  Jennifer Canady and Dana Trabusly for their leadership in pushing the bill to passage in the lower chamber, and Sens. Danny Burgess and Corey Simon for doing the same across the rotunda.

Beyond HB 443, Figueroa closely tracked other pivotal education legislation. One aimed to expand Florida’s Schools of Hope program, which allows charters to co-locate within underused public schools.

Burgess and Rep.  Susan Valdés  origi-

nally filed standalone bills (SB 1702, HB 1115) to make the change. They failed to pass, but their language made it into a state budget measure.

Figueroa’s longtime client Academica, a Miami-headquartered company that services hundreds of charters nationwide, has several Schools of Hope.

“We were looking at that bill carefully,” she said. “Our goal was to ensure that all Schools of Hope were included, not just new ones that wanted to come into the state.”

Other legislation Figueroa weighed in on included a proposal (SB 140) by Sen. Don Gaetz and Rep. Alex Andrade to ease public-to-charter school conversions; a bill (SB 296) by Sen.  Jennifer Bradley and Rep. Anne Gerwig to repeal a 2023 law setting later school start times; and a measure (SB 248) by Simon and Reps.  Shane Abbott and  Kimberly Daniels  to ensure virtual charter students could play interscholastic sports regardless of their schools’ enrollment levels.

SB 248 and SB 296 passed and were signed by Gov.  Ron DeSantis. The virtual school item was folded into HB 443, while the charter school conversion mea-

sure made it into an “education train” bill (HB 1105) Burgess and Rep. Jennifer Kincart Johnson ushered to passage.

In all of that success, what sets Figueroa apart is her lived experience. Her education work for Bush was a crash course on a subject she’s since made a specialty, both through her government relations work and as a past charter school board Chair.

“It’s something I completely understand, and it helps me be quick in action,” she said. “I don’t have to always go back to the client and ask, ‘Is this good?’ I truly understand the charter school issue.”

Veteran lobbyist Allison Carvajal, who also worked on HB 443, said Figueroa “knows charter school issues inside-out.”

“She works the charter school issues hard, and when legislators have a charter school question, they call her for guidance,” she said.

Figueroa said she appreciates the recognition, but that’s not what’s most important.

“As much as I enjoy the accolades, going under the radar is sometimes best,” she said. “The work talks for itself.”

HOW CAN WE BEST SERVE THOSE WHO SERVED?

We’ve all thanked a veteran in one way or another. At the airport, in a parade, through a donation. As well we should. America’s military veterans didn’t just volunteer—they set aside years of their lives to defend our country, its values, and its allies. These 18 million men and women represent an essential strength of the U.S., embodying the nation’s spirit of public service, courage, selflessness, and leadership. Upon their return to civilian life, some service members transition easily, transferring their skills to civilian jobs and reentering the embrace of their families and communities. But this is not the case for all veterans. Many bring back with them traumas and injuries—physical or mental—that can last a lifetime.

When veterans can’t access the help they need, we all suffer— veterans and their families most of all. Those who need support deserve to be treated with respect by the nation for which they have sacrificed so much. In short, those who served deserve to be served.

Philip Morris International (PMI) has launched a nationwide initiative to empower the veterans community and support these men and women through national and local programs. We are sponsoring organizations with a track record of improving veterans’ lives, partnering with law schools in select communities to help veterans access benefits, and supporting military veterans and their spouses as we expand our business across the U.S.

Individually and collectively, we have an opportunity to do something meaningful for America’s veterans. Working together, with an eye to the future, we can deliver measurable progress so all veterans have a fair shot at succeeding at home, at work, and in their communities.

See how we can better serve those who served DOWNLOAD THE WHITE PAPER

PLAY OF THE YEAR LOBBYING

Rhett O’Doski and Sean Stafford

Abill that sought to curb where Florida could place its future trash incinerators ended up in the political dumpster thanks to a master class in Process tactics by lobbyists  Rhett O’Doski  and  Sean Stafford of McGuireWoods Consulting.

They employed a combination of precise timing, strategic advocacy and high-level outreach to orchestrate what insiders have lauded as the finest government relations move in Florida this year.

By Session’s end, the bill (HB 1609) bounced between the chambers more times than a ping pong ball at a frat kegger, exceeding the House’s procedural limit of three returns, ultimately killing the proposal.

At issue was an ongoing effort to block the construction of a new waste-to-energy plant near homes, schools and businesses in Miami-Dade County that emerged in response to a February 2023 fire at the Covanta incinerator in Doral. The blaze, which lasted for weeks, left neighborhoods enveloped in smoke and soot, drew national headlines and spurred community backlash.

Legislation followed this year. Sen.  Bryan Ávila  was first to file a bill (SB 1008) to prohibit any future facility from rising half a mile from population centers. Shortly after, Reps.  Meg Weinberger and  David Borrero filed HB 1609 as a companion.

But as the bills advanced, things got complicated. SB 1008 stalled in commit-

tee and was folded into SB 1822, a measure by Sen.  Jonathan Martin that was originally focused solely on regulating single-use containers like bags and cups. At Ávila, O’Doski and Stafford’s urging, Martin amended his bill in committee to limit its impact to Miami-Dade.

When the measure hit the Senate floor, Martin tabled it in favor of HB 1609, amending the House bill to match his legislation’s language before sending it back across the rotunda.

A whirlwind of amendments and parliamentary tactics ensued. The House removed the container-related provisions from the bill while reinstating statewide restrictions on incinerator construction with a carve-out for existing facilities.

O’Doski and Stafford then worked to persuade Martin to narrow the bill’s scope again, with notable support from  Eric Trump, who opposed rebuilding the Doral facility near his father’s golf resort.

Key to that, they said, was highlighting a change the House added that they argued worked counter to the legislation’s original intent, allowing only for a replacement facility to be constructed in Doral — exactly what the city and the Trump family opposed.

“Part of the jiu-jitsu here was using Eric Trump’s advocacy on the bill against it,” O’Doski said. “We knew if he could be convinced that the House was trying to codify what he didn’t want, we had a shot at bouncing this thing back and forth.”

All in all, the bill drew 19 proposed amendments.

“It was a mix of panic one moment and exuberance the next,” Stafford said. “We did our job, but the job’s not over because the issue isn’t.”

The tug-of-war proved frustrating on the House side. Weinberger took exception with the bill’s constantly changing language, particularly the added text on containers and the switch from a statewide focus to a county-specific one on the incinerator issue.

“It was a completely different bill, but I was still trying to get it done,” she said. “If it needs more work next Session, I’m happy to do it.”

Ávila, who acknowledged there were “concerns from numerous stakeholders” that the House language’s effect would “run contrary to the original intent,” said it wasn’t a total wash.

“Even though this was not the preferred outcome, the feedback from stakeholders was incredibly valuable and the momentum heading into the next Session is immeasurable,” he said.

O’Doski and Stafford, meanwhile, walked away with what many saw as a procedural masterpiece borne of precision, transparency and relentless communication.

“You always want to be up-front,” O’Doski said. “But because of the array of players in this, you don’t want any unforced errors.”

LOBBYING

Runner-Up PLAY OF THE

YEAR

Avery Mazur and Edgar Castro with Cissy Proctor

Theprocess to pass a measure like Lucy’s Law was always going to be an emotional one given the tragedy surrounding the law’s namesake.

A September 2022 boat crash in Biscayne Bay took the life of 17-yearold  Luciana Fernandez, while questions swirled — and are still swirling — about the treatment of the boat’s driver,  George Pino. Pino originally faced relatively light sanctions, but he’s now dealing with increased charges following public outcry about the crash.

Seeking to avoid any question about whether future wrongdoers would face the appropriate punishment, lawmakers sealed the deal this Session on Lucy’s Law, which increases penalties for dangerous boating, after the bill had stalled previously.

For  Edgar Castro of The Southern Group (TSG), who worked with TSG’s  Avery Mazur to drive this bill home, the emotions surrounding the effort went well beyond just reading headlines about Lucy’s untimely passing.

Castro has been close to the Fernan-

dez family since high school and, years later his sister married into their family.

“I have known Lucy since she was born. She was actually the first baby I ever held and tragically, the first funeral I have had to attend for a child.”

Lucy’s parents,  Melissa and  Andy Fernandez, were a constant presence in Tallahassee this Session to urge lawmakers not to let this bill slip through the cracks. Castro and Mazur worked on the measure to make sure it got done — and did it pro bono.

Castro said a breakfast meeting earlier last year between the family and House Speaker  Daniel Perez  convinced Perez that the bill should be a priority. And the Speaker obliged, opening the House floor session with Lucy’s Law being the very first bill heard.

Yet, the effort went down to the wire.

“There were definitely multiple times throughout the last week of Session that I thought the bill was not going to make it,” Castro said. “Because it was the most important piece of legislation that I’ve ever worked on, it was also the most stressful.”

That included Castro and Mazur watching the resolution with Lucy’s family.

“That last night, the Fernandez family came to my house. Even that day, I was not sure the bill was going to pass,” Castro recalled.

“The Speaker called me that evening to say that he couldn’t guarantee anything, but he was confident enough that the bill was going to come back. And that he would ensure, no matter what time of night it came back, he would get it out. And he kept his word.”

In fact, Lucy’s Law was the very last bill approved by the House as the clock ticked down to wrap a tense final week of Session.

“There are no coincidences in life,” Perez said on the floor before the bill

PHOTOS: Abby Hart

Cissy Proctor

in Florida should be safer because of the work, in part, of TSG’s Avery Mazur (left) and Edgar Castro (right).

passed, acknowledging the bill bookending the House’s work.

The personal connection Castro had to the legislation made the process difficult at times, and he credited Mazur with serving as a stellar partner throughout Session.

“Avery was an integral part. It was a team effort,” Castro said.

“There were a couple of committee hearings and meetings that I couldn’t attend, and Avery was by the family’s side. He was really good with them at being their rock when things looked bleak.”

The bill is still awaiting a signature from Gov. Ron DeSantis has since signed the bill into law, providing closure for more than just the Fernadez family.

Cissy Proctor of LSN Partners also

worked this Session with the family of  Ella Adler, who was struck and killed by a boat last year while wakeboarding. Her family was also vocal in supporting the changes under Lucy’s Law.

“It is a privilege to support the Adler family as they seek justice and advocate for stronger boater safety measures in the wake of the unimaginable loss of their daughter, Ella. They have been deeply inspired by the courage and determination of the Fernandez family, who have channeled their grief into meaningful change with the passage of Lucy’s Law, comprehensive boater safety legislation designed to prevent future tragedies on Florida’s waterways,” Proctor said.

“Lucy and Ella’s legacy are already

making a difference, and the Adlers remain committed to supporting this fight — for their daughter, for Lucy and for every other Floridian that deserves safety, accountability and peace of mind on the water.”

And with boating culture so prominent in South Florida and elsewhere in the Sunshine State, Castro hopes that forcing boaters to think twice about their behavior will help other families avoid such a heart-wrenching loss.

“Lucy’s favorite thing to do was to be on the water, to be on the boat,” he said of the family’s vessel. “It was docked at a marina by her house. She’d go there, study, hang out. The water was her happy place.”

Boaters

PHOTO: The Workmans

If you follow Florida politics and lobbying, you already know Tracy Mayernick. She’s no stranger to these pages either. Among other recognitions, INFLUENCE Magazine has named her as one of the 100 most influential people in Florida politics, a previous Appropriations Lobbyist of the Year, and one of the most influential people in health care politics.

Mayernick and her husband, Frank, formed the Mayernick Group 15 years ago and have built it into one of Tallahassee’s top firms. One of her notable clients is hospital behemoth HCA Healthcare. She’s known for being a tough strategist with a fun and friendly personality.

“What sets Tracy apart is not only her technical expertise, but the trust she has built with legislative leaders and clients,” said Heather Turnbull, this year’s selection for Lobbyist of the Year. “Her counsel is sought after, her guidance respected, and her approach grounded in both integrity and results. Beyond her professional excellence, Tracy brings humanity to The Process — always focused on the people behind the policy.”

Turnbull, Managing Partner for Rubin Turnbull & Associates, especially showered praise for Mayernick’s appropriations chops. Turnbull said they are unmatched in the business, praising Mayernick’s “instinctive ability to craft and execute winning strategies … in real time, under pressure, and with precision.”

“Watching Tracy in action is like witnessing a masterclass in how to navigate the Florida Legislature with speed, clarity and purpose,” Turnbull said.

And that’s just it. Mayernick is a top standout thanks to her ability to be a leading shot caller. She understands that the best leaders tap their strengths and respect their weaknesses. Perhaps no one in The Process is as adept at fielding exactly the right team, always positioning players for maximum effect.

“She leads with principle, collaborates with purpose, and advocates with unmatched tenacity,” Turnbull said. “Tracy Mayernick exemplifies what it means to be a true leader in Florida’s government affairs arena. Our industry is better because of her, and our state is stronger for the work she does every day.”

And while some will acknowledge Mayernick’s one-two punch of both bark and bite, most still see her as something just as important: a team player always willing to lend a hand and show the ropes.

“Coming into the Florida House as a redshirt freshman, I knew the learning curve would be steep. Tracy Mayernick’s

friendship, strategic instinct and steady guidance gave me the confidence and perspective I needed to hit the ground running,” said Rep. Mike Redondo, who is now in line to be Speaker in the 2030 term.

“Her ability to see the big picture, anticipate challenges and craft winning strategies is unmatched in Tallahassee, especially when the stakes are high. Tracy’s counsel didn’t just help me find my footing — it helped me make a real impact for my district from Day 1. She is more than deserving of being named Strategic Lobbyist of the Year.”

But while we think we know Mayernick, we wanted to dig deeper. We stole a list of scientifically formulated questions from late night talk show host Stephen Colbert, who uses it to take deep dives into the hearts and minds of A-list celebrities to make them “fully known.”

He calls it the “Colbert Questionert.” Florida politics wanted to see if the list also worked on A-list lobbyists, and Mayernick took the risk of playing ball. Here’s what we learned.

Florida Politics: What’s the best sandwich?

Tracy Mayernick: Turkey sandwich. I love a Jimmy John’s turkey sandwich.

FP: What’s the one thing that you own that you really should throw out?

TM: Oh, my. I do not let go of old clothes that I think will come back in style, and I should totally clear out my closet. I’d probably say half the things in my closet I will probably never wear again and they just take up space.

FP: What’s the scariest animal?

TM: I’m not a snake fan.

FP: Apples or oranges?

TM: Apples.

FP: Have you ever asked anyone for their autograph?

TM: Muhammad Ali when I was little. I ran up, skirted around everybody and jumped up and said, “Hey, champ! Can I get your autograph?” My parents always laugh about that.

FP: Do you still have it?

TM: No. My parents may have it, but I’m assuming they would have given it to me if they had. But I always loved that at a young age, I wanted to get that autograph, so I went for it. I was like 6 or 7.

FP: What do you think happens when we die?

TM: We go to heaven.

FP: All of us?

TM: Only the good ones! Only the ones who’ve earned it! (Laughs) I think they check us in at the pearly gates and some are surprised when they’re denied,

but I hope to have lived a life that puts me on the right side of the pearly gates.

FP: Favorite action movie?

TM: “Braveheart” or “Gladiator.” I love a lot of newer action movies that have come along, they’ve been great, but they’ve been in the top five since high school, college, and I’d say they’re probably still my top two.

FP: What’s your favorite smell?

TM: I do like vanilla. Or pine. I love pine around the holidays.

FP: Least favorite smell?

TM: I really hate a wet-dog smell, like when the rain gets in your garage and boxes get wet. I really don’t like that musky, damp, wet smell.

FP: Exercise. Is it worth it?

TM: No. (Big laugh) I spent years exercising insanely, and I feel like it just leads to injury and then it’s very hard to maintain as you get older. So, I think it serves a purpose as far as stress relief goes, but I would say, unfortunately, diet decisions are probably more important.

FP: Flat or sparkling?

TM: Flat.

FP: What’s the most used app on your phone?

TM: Probably Waze. I pull that one up all the time.

FP: You get one song to listen to for the rest of your life. You don’t have to listen to it all the time, you can pick when you want to hear it, but you can never listen to another song. What is it?

TM: That is a really tough one. I love music. Maybe “Brown Eyed Girl.” My husband is a pretty good karaoke singer, and he sang that song to me one time, and then, obviously, with my brown eyes … I just love it. It puts you in a good mood.

FP: What number am I thinking of?

TM: Seven.

FP: No.

FP: Describe the rest of your life in five words.

TM: (holding up hand to count words on her finger): Family. Travel. Healthy. Appreciative. (Long, long pause) Champagne! The last one will be champagne (big laugh).

REGULATED INDUSTRIES

OF THE YEAR LOBBYISTS

Monica Rodriguez and Jared Ross

Monica Rodriguez, a partner in Ballard Partners’ Tallahassee office, and Jared Ross, President of the Florida Beer Wholesalers Association, came up with a big win this Session, one that more than earns them this year’s crown as the Regulated Industries Lobbyists of the Year.

They took on a Stanley Cup-winning NHL franchise and won, though unfortunately there was no Stanley Cup for them at the end of the hard-fought battle. Rodriguez took on the project on behalf of her client, Southern Wine and Spirits, and Ross did so as a top industry leader.

The Florida Panthers were backing a legislative proposal this year that would have exempted its Broward County stadium from following the state’s alcoholic beverage laws.

HB 4039, sponsored by Republican Rep.  Chip LaMarca, would have allowed the Florida Panthers’ contracted concessionaire to sidestep the state’s three-tier system, which separates the spirits industry into suppliers, distributors and vendors.

On paper, the legislation was a continuation of a privilege extended to a handful of publicly owned venues years ago. The initial reasoning was that it would spare local taxpayers from footing the bill for multiple business licenses, each of which commands a high price in the private market.

Now that local governments don’t

run the venues, the opposition said the justification no longer holds water.

And that’s where Rodriguez and Ross stepped in to say, “Hold my beer.”

Along with other critics, the pair emphasized that the exemption would have given one company a significant competitive advantage, jeopardizing the viability of other establishments in or near the Sunrise Entertainment District.

The reasoning: By skirting the walls separating each segment of the industry, the company would have been able to solicit or otherwise receive payments from major alcohol brands in exchange for exclusivity, a practice that is expressly forbidden under current law.

Further, such subsidies may have been used to fund renovations or improvements that would outshine what businesses subject to the law could reasonably afford.

Down the supply chain, small-volume producers without the capital to compete in a bidding war with the majors would likely have been shut out of a significant revenue source and brand exposure.

What perhaps helped Rodriguez and Ross to kill the bill is that they did so relatively early in the Legislative Session.

The Panthers were widely expected to be top contenders for the cup, making them a tough organization to say no to. But it’s no wonder Rodriguez and Ross were successful.

Ross replaced longtime Florida Beer Wholesalers leader  Mitch Rubin, who passed away in 2022. It was Rubin who recruited, and briefly mentored, Ross.

“Without a doubt, Jared had big shoes to fill. With several key victories this year including stopping several bad bills, it appears those shoes are being well filled,” said  Steve Vancore, a consultant who worked closely on the issue. “Jared led his team to beat back several bills that would have harmed consumers, limited choice and variety of beer and would

have eroded Florida’s very successful three tier system. While Mitch will never be forgotten by those who knew and loved him, clearly his choice for successor was a very good one.”

he was Florida House Speaker. She also worked on Newt Gingrich’s long ago campaign for President, and with the Republican Party of Miami-Dade County (then just Dade County), the Republican National Hispanic Assembly and more. It’s clear Rodriguez knew how to get things done long before this challenge presented itself.

And Rodriguez is no slouch either. Even before joining Ballard, a powerhouse in its own right, she had nearly two decades of legislative experience at the state and federal level, representing clients in health care, nonprofits and local government. She formerly served as a legislative aide to  Marco Rubio when in Tallahassee and Washington.

“Monica Rodriguez is one of the most brilliant advocates in the business,” said Ana Cruz, Managing Partner for Ballard’s Tampa Bay practice, and a partner

“Her ability to navigate complexity, build coalitions and stay three steps ahead is unmatched. This year, she took on one of the most high-profile fights in Tallahassee — an attempt by the Florida Panthers to bypass long-standing beverage laws — and stopped it in its tracks. Monica didn’t just win on policy; she protected the integrity of our system and proved, once again, that no one fights harder — or smarter — for her clients.”

Oscar J. Braynon II and Edgar Castro OF THE YEAR LOBBYISTS LOCAL

Before partnering at The Southern Group (TSG),  Edgar Castro and  Oscar J. Braynon II were on different sides of Miami-Dade politics, one a lobbyist and the other a politician. When CEOs are faced with challenges in Miami-Dade County, Castro and Braynon are often their first call. Their diverse backgrounds serve as a powerful foundation for their success.

Castro’s public policy career began with an internship at the White House and staff positions with the U.S. Senate and the Florida House of Representatives before being hired by a D.C.-based consulting firm that advocated on behalf of companies and trade associations.

After moving back to South Florida and working for a law firm in their government affairs practice, Castro seized the opportunity to become a partner in The Southern Group’s Miami office and reestablish the firm’s presence in South Florida.

Braynon’s life in elected leadership began when he served on the Miami City Gardens Council. He went on to serve as Vice Mayor of Miami City Gardens before being elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2008. After three years in the House, Braynon was elected to the Florida Senate and became the minority leader in the 2016 and 2017 Legislative Sessions.

Braynon and Castro first connected while collaborating on state-level policy issues when Braynon was a Legislator. Five years ago, Braynon transitioned from Legislator to lobbyist and joined The Southern Group.

“I wanted to continue the success that Edgar and I had in collaborating on issues impacting our community,” said Braynon. “That’s ultimately what led me to join The Southern Group.”

Castro said Braynon is hyper intelligent and a master strategist and connector. “Whether it’s a client or elected official, he finds a way to connect with them.”

“Edgar is hard-charging and relentless in achieving our clients’ goals,” Braynon said. “He is meticulous. He doesn’t miss a single detail but is also open to discussions of differing opinions. That’s what makes us so symbiotic.”

Castro and Braynon have successfully partnered with both nonprofit and private-sector clients, achieving key victories aimed at enhancing community safety, improving quality of life for local families, and fostering economic growth.

Recent client successes include collaborating with Miami-Dade County Commissioners to secure a no-bid contract for their client, RedSpeed USA, to place speed devices in school zones. “We hope this work will help people change their behavior in school zones and slow down for the safety of children and teens,” said Castro.

“I have known and worked with Edgar and Oscar for almost two decades on various public safety initiatives,” said  Greg Parks, Senior Vice President at RedSpeed. “There are no better advocates to have on your side when the issues are complex and the vote count is tight.”

Castro and Braynon were also instrumental in securing a critical contract for

Miami-based Horsepower Electric to implement an advanced traffic management system, aimed at easing congestion. After the previous vendor failed to perform, Castro and Braynon convinced the county their client was the right choice not just for their technological expertise but also for their commitment to local job creation and traffic efficiency.

In another win, Castro and Braynon championed a real estate client’s effort to sell the county their 26-acre property for the purposes of a future Government Center Complex. The major office complex will house multiple county departments, benefiting both businesses and residents in the area. The sale was one of the largest in Miami-Dade County history.

“For too long, west Miami Dade residents have had few opportunities to get the help and services the county provides because of the lack of offices in and around our community,” said  Antony Roderiguez, Chair of the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners. “I’m thankful to professionals like Edgar and Oscar who worked with the county to ensure West Miami-Dade residents have access to the government service they pay for and deserve.”

With a track record defined by precision, strategic depth, and tangible results, Castro and Braynon have positioned themselves as indispensable players in Miami-Dade’s political and policy landscape. Their combined expertise continues to drive outcomes where it matters most — at the intersection of public need and political decision-making.

PHOTO: Abby Hart

“Oscar and Edgar are standout advocates, who blend their understanding of community needs with their deep knowledge of local government and a strong commitment to public service,” said Miami-Dade County Commissioner Oliver Gilbert. “This unique combination allows them to identify opportunities that serve not just their clients, but the broader public interest as well.”

Left to right: Oscar J. Braynon II and Edgar Castro

LOBBYIST BADASS

OF THE YEAR

Ana Cruz

Ana Cruz isn’t just a lobbyist. She’s a warrior for women, a daughter who loves her mom, a friend who will go to great lengths in the name of loyalty, an ace political consultant, and a valued mentor, particularly among young Hispanic women.

If all of that isn’t badass enough, she once served as the youngest Executive Director ever, at the time, for the Florida Democratic Party (FDP).

Now, she’s the managing partner for Ballard Partners’ Tampa offices, and is a partner in its Tallahassee and Washington offices, too. Ballard, it’s worth noting, is one of the nation’s top lobby firms, and has an international presence.

In Florida alone, it regularly ranks as one of the top earning firms, most recently landing at No. 2 based on lobby compensation reports, with $9 million in earnings, largely buoyed by Cruz’s work.

“Our firm has had the fortune of knowing Ana for nearly two decades. Throughout the years, we have time and again been amazed by her political prowess, her brilliantly strategic mind, and her genuine kindness,” said Jeff Johnston of the firm Johnston & Stewart.

“In our world, it’s not easy to find all of those qualities in one person. On a different note, and as a Tampa resident, I love the pride she takes in her role as Tampa’s First Lady. We are all lucky to have her advocating for us and our beloved community!”

Johnston was referencing Cruz’s perhaps lesser known role in politics as the

longtime partner to Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. Cruz, as dutiful a partner as she is a friend and professional, is often seen escorting Castor at city events, charity galas and other notable places, and she is Castor’s fiercest advocate.

Cruz might not have had an official role in Castor’s blowout campaign for Mayor nearly eight years ago, but make no mistake, she was a driving force, ensuring campaign strategy was aligned with Castor’s vision and that it was carried out and communicated effectively.

After all, Cruz isn’t just known for lobbying. She’s also a formidable political consultant. Ask Nancy Millan, the current Hillsborough County Tax Collector elected in 2020 with a lot of help from Cruz. Millan, a Democrat, won easily in an open race against a Republican, securing nearly 55% of the vote. It was Cruz who largely led her campaign.

“I’ve known Ana Cruz for over 20 years and have always admired her drive and dedication to empowering women, especially Latina women. When I decided to run for Hillsborough County Tax Collector in 2020, I had little knowledge of politics or what it took to run for an elected position,” Millan said. “Despite my limited experience, Ana provided me with immense support and invaluable advice every step of the way.”

Millan outlined an example.

“During a critical point in the campaign, Ana suggested we focus on grassroots coalition building to strengthen community support — a strategy that proved pivotal and ultimately led to my election victory,” she recalled. “Her expertise in lobbying, strategic communications, and political consulting made a tangible difference, guiding our messaging and outreach to connect authentically with voters.”

More than that though, Millan praised Cruz’s friendship and ongoing support as a cornerstone in her journey.

“Her story is a powerful testament to resilience and hard work, inspiring me and many others to pursue our dreams and achieve far more than we thought possible,” Millan said.

An inspiring story it is. Cruz was born to  Janet Cruz, a former state Senator and Representative, when the elder Cruz was just 16 years old. Ana Cruz proved to have her mother’s grit for finding success despite obvious challenges, and has overcome her own set of obstacles over the years, rising from flight attendant as a young adult to the rockstar lobbyist she is now.

Among Cruz’s previous duties in politics are stints as the Executive Director of the FDP; District Director for former U.S. Sen.  Bill Nelson; a legislative aide to former state Rep.  Bob Henriquez, who is now the Hillsborough County Property Appraiser; Deputy Finance Director for the Al Gore campaign in Florida in 2000; spokesperson for Hillary for Florida; and Campaign Manager for Hillsborough County Circuit Judge  Kimberly Fernandez’s and Catherine Catlin’s races.

And if her current job at Ballard weren’t enough to keep her busy — the workload would send most into an immediate tailspin — she’s also involved in her Tampa Bay area community through membership on a variety of boards, including the Greater Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce, the Athena Society and, previously, the 51st Super Bowl Committee.

Merritt Linstrom, Chief of Staff for Moffitt Cancer Center Research, praised that service as a demonstration of “her commitment to empowering women in leadership roles.” He also noted that Cruz has twice been recognized as one of Florida’s Top 100 Most Influential by this very magazine.

“Cruz’s leadership continues to inspire and open doors for the next generation of female professionals,” Lindstrom said.

Ask anyone about what makes Cruz stand out and you’ll hear the same thing over and over: that she is a relentless advocate for women like her, and women like her mother, who have worked hard to achieve greatness even as life’s obstacles sometimes made it difficult.

“Ana has been a driving force in Florida politics — her strategic vision, fearless leadership and deep commitment to her community have made her a role model for women across the state,” said  Ashley Walker, a partner at Mercury Public Affairs who has worked closely with Cruz.

“She’s opened doors, lifted voices and proved that when women lead, we all win. Her legacy won’t just be in the victories she’s helped deliver, but in the countless women she’s inspired to step up, speak out and succeed.”

LOBBYING GROUP OF THE YEAR NEW

Arrow Group

Just months after its launch, Arrow Group has been named New Lobbying Firm of the Year — a recognition that underscores the firm’s immediate impact on Florida’s advocacy landscape and validates its bold vision for reshaping government affairs consulting.

Launched in January 2025 as a strategic partnership between Gunster and the former Anfield Consulting team, Arrow Group emerged with a clear mission: to reimagine government affairs consulting in Florida. Headquartered in Tallahassee with statewide reach, the firm com-

bines proven expertise with a fresh, forward-looking approach to advocacy.

Arrow Group’s foundation draws on decades of experience. The firm is led by  Albert Balido, a seasoned advocate with more than 30 years in Florida’s legislative and regulatory arenas, and  Ron Brisé, a former state legislator and former chair of the Public Service Commission. Together, they bring a legacy of leadership and results-driven service to clients across regulated industries including health care, energy, land

row. left to right: Julie Fess, Glen Gilzean, Timothy J. Stapleton, Albert Balido, Ronald BriseMiddle row: left to right - Harold “Trey” Price, Kim Shugar, Alexandria Kernan, J. Larry Williams. Bottom row: left to right - Rosanna Catalano, Sha’ron James, Edgar Fernandez, Alexis Flores, Corrine Maro

use, transportation, and finance.

“This recognition highlights our strategic vision that Florida needed a new kind of advocacy firm,” Balido said. “We’re not just filling a gap; we’re setting a new standard for what government affairs consulting can achieve.”

Arrow Group’s approach is defined by near-instant access to decision-makers across Florida’s legislative, executive, and local government spheres, and by a “nothing-is-impossible” mindset. The firm offers tailored strategies that combine creative problem-solving with

Arrow Group Policy Leaders

Larry Williams, Dean of Advisors

Albert Balido, Appropriations and Taxation

Ron Brisé, Energy and Utilities

Rosanna Catalano, Business Regulation

Brett Cyphers, Environmental

Natalie Fausel, Local Government and Resiliency

Edgar Fernandez, Infrastructure and Procurement

Julie Fess, General Government

Sha’Ron James, Financial Services

Alexandria Kernan, Conservation and Emerging Technologies

Simone Marstiller, Education and Human Services

Trey Price, Housing and Land Use

Kim Shugar, Environmental

Tim Stapleton, Health Care

deep institutional knowledge. Clients benefit from a team that includes former state officials, policy analysts, and strategic consultants who operate as an extension of their own teams.

What sets Arrow Group apart is its dual identity: While it leverages the reputation and resources of Gunster — one of Florida’s most established and respected law firms — it operates with its own voice and vision across the entire state. This balance allows Arrow Group to offer personalized service with the institutional strength of a statewide powerhouse.

“Florida is entering a new era of growth and opportunity,” Brisé said. “Arrow Group is positioned to help shape that future. This award recognition signals the beginning of what we plan to accomplish.”

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LOBBYIST OF THE YEAR NEW

Atjust 40 years old, Stephanie Lewis Cardozo has established herself as a rising force in Florida’s lobbying scene. With a background in campaign finance and political strategy, she was a sought-after addition for a handful of top lobbying firms. She ultimately chose The Southern Group for its culture and team-centric approach to lobbying.

Cardozo’s passion for advocacy has helped her secure historic victories for female candidates while forging meaningful connections between personal experience and policy outcomes. She played a key role as a strategist and fundraiser in Donna Deegan’s successful Jacksonville mayoral campaign. But as the daughter of a two-time breast cancer survivor, she also connected with Deegan’s own breast cancer battle and mission to support women’s health.

“Anytime you or a loved one faces cancer, it shifts your perspective and guides you on what is truly important,” Cardozo said.

A fifth-generation Floridian from Seminole, her interest in government was sparked by her schoolteacher mother, a history teacher and local political leaders. A college internship with Gov. Charlie Crist led to her first major role as finance director for his gubernatorial and congressional campaigns.

“Gov. Crist was one of the best political fundraisers I’ve ever known,” she said. “He allowed me to work directly with donors, develop relationships with them, and build their trust.”

She took on increasingly senior roles, including director of external affairs for Nikki Fried, Florida’s first female Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services. When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted supply chains, Cardozo spearheaded an online marketplace that connected Florida farmers with buyers, some of whom had typically sourced their products from other states. This creative solution helped preserve jobs and generate

Stephanie Lewis Cardozo

much-needed revenue in Florida.

After years on the campaign trail, Cardozo — now a wife and mother of three — planned to step away from politics. But she was recruited for one last campaign, to lead fundraising for Deegan’s mayoral race. Outspent but strategic, she leaned into her skills in trust-building and donor engagement to help secure Deegan’s victory.

Her transition to lobbying was a natural next step, especially given her love for the “get-it-done” nature of local politics. As part of The Southern Group, she now advocates for land use and sustainable development in Tampa Bay and Northeast Florida, using her relationship-building skills to navigate legislative discussions.

Her client portfolio includes the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and their plans to expand and build a Manatee Critical Rehabilitation Facility. Additionally, she has worked on Gateway Jax’s Pearl Square mixed-use development project.

“Stephanie’s understanding of the Jacksonville market and strategic insight have been instrumental in helping us get new development off the ground,” said Gateway Jax CEO Bryan Moll. “Through our partnership, we are working toward a bold vision for the future of downtown Jacksonville.”

In her work with Vestcor Companies, one of her first lobbying clients, Stephanie helped advance an affordable housing initiative in Jacksonville, The Lofts at

Southbank. The mixed-use community will offer 100 apartment homes, 75 of which will be reserved for people earning up to 60% of the area median income.

“I saw how other cities’ rapid growth didn’t always include affordable housing in the conversation,” Cardozo said. “Jacksonville and Vestcor have worked together to not only invest in the city’s growth but to be thoughtful about including affordable housing options in the equation. The project was not without its challenges, but we pushed it across the finish line by incorporating a self-storage component that also served the community’s interests.”

“There’s no better advocate to have on your side than Stephanie, especially when she believes in what you’re doing,” said Vestcor President Steve Moore “From the beginning, she understood our mission and worked tirelessly to help us gain traction on a critical project in downtown Jacksonville.”

During the week, Cardozo influences policy across Tampa Bay and Northeast Florida. But weekends are reserved for her children’s activities. Logging 52,000 miles on her nearly new car in just a year, she remains committed to balancing career and family.

“I want my daughters and my son to see that you can be amazing at your job, and you can also be a great and present parent. The Southern Group allows me the opportunity to do that,” she said.

“There’s no better advocate to have on your side than Cardozo, especially when she believes in what you’re doing.” -steve moore

What I’ve Learned

Rick Wilson

As described by Janelle Irwin Taylor

Rick Wilson worked — and those close to the political process know that also means lived — in national Republican politics for three decades. He cut his teeth working for George H.W. Bush, and went on to be a highly sought-after strategist known for his political savvy and ability to turn heads and win campaigns.

Now he’s a pariah in the GOP, a breakup he forced after becoming disenchanted with the policies and rhetoric of President Donald Trump, those in Trump’s orbit, and the MAGA mentality that Trump’s bombastic, larger-than-life personality created.

Wilson didn’t just quietly oppose Trump. He wasn’t one of those who voted his conscience at the ballot box but stayed silent about it at the bar. Instead, he co-founded the Lincoln Project, a political action committee that frequently opposes Trump and his allies with sometimes shocking, always catchy, digital content.

And if that wasn’t enough, he authored two New York Times bestsellers, both excoriating Trump and his brand. The first, “Everything Trump Touches Dies,” landed at No. 1. His second, “Running Against The Devil — A Plot To Save America From Trump And Democrats From Themselves,” reached No. 4.

“I was a successful consultant. I worked big races and small races and was a guy people came to for advice. I was pretty good at it,” Wilson said.

Leaving that behind was not an easy thing. Wilson knew he’d catch heat from those he long considered political allies. Still, it was a choice Wilson felt he had to make.

“I actually decided I would live my beliefs and follow what I believed in about the rule of law and the Constitution and the country, and it wasn’t logical. I detonated my business at the time. I can’t tell you the number of calls I received saying, ‘We can’t work with you this cycle,’” Wilson said.

“I actually decided I would live my beliefs and follow what I believed in about the rule of law and the Constitution and the country, and it wasn’t logical...”

“At the end of the day, being brave about what you believe in will change your life fundamentally.”

“But I’ve slept better in the last eight years than I did in the previous 30 and I really came to believe, at this point, that saying no to something that I publicly and privately believed was basically evil was something that has changed my life in a good way.”

And that’s where Wilson’s lessons for those who follow — regardless of political affiliation — begin.

IT STARTS WITH COURAGE

“Too many people think being in politics is being the clever boy who knows how to win a race on the sly,” Wilson said. “At the end of the day, being brave about what you believe in will change your life fundamentally.”

Wilson said his GOP snub caused him to lose some friends, some of his oldest friends. And that hurt, he said.

“But on the other hand, I look at it now in the clear light of the years, and a lot of those friends live a life of secrecy and misery,” he said, describing lifelong conservatives who secretly oppose Trump but publicly toe the party line.

They don’t say what they’re thinking, which Wilson said is often, “Oh my God, what’s he going to do now?”

He described some in today’s GOP

as “the snitch parade,” a subculture of Republican consultants who search for fellow Republicans to out as not Trumpy enough.

IS THERE A HOME FOR ‘SOFT’ REPUBLICANS?

They exist. But then they don’t, at least not in politics. Look at people like  Liz Cheney and  Adam Kinzinger, Republicans whom Democrats have come to respect because they had the courage to oppose Trump. Their reward: the end of their political careers and a stern shunning from their own party.

The Trump culture won’t go away any time soon, Wilson warned, though some will read that as triumph. But the culture “doesn’t really scale very well,” Wilson said.

Sure, the Trumpiest of Trump’s people will find success in ruby red pockets of rural America and swaths of the Bible Belt.

“If you’re in a Republican +15 seat, it’s OK to say immigrants should fight to the death with sledgehammers,” Wilson said, his voice more serious than the comment might suggest.

But, he added, districts that are more competitive require a softer touch. And

not everyone can get away with being a Trump character, especially if their talking points match Trump’s but their character does not.

Ron DeSantis jumps immediately to mind for Wilson.

“He tried to scale Trumpism. He took the confrontational nature and the ‘I’m going to be the biggest asshole in the room’ approach, and it turns out, people didn’t like it. Why go for diet Trump?”

The Republican Party has fundamentally changed, Wilson argues, and part of that was dependent on Trump. But even after Trump is gone — whether from the White House or this mortal earth — Trumpism will remain. The Trump children will probably start running for office, Wilson hypothesized, wondering aloud whether anyone whose last name isn’t Trump could even compete.

“Trumpism is an easier skate. It’s the populism. It’s the culture war dependency. It’s the idea that even when you’re the dominant party, somehow the deep state still makes Florida imperiled from liberalism,” he said.

“The Republican Party of today still has the branding and still has the logo and still has the headquarters in Washington, but it is not the Republican Party

“It’s not easy, it’s not fun, but you do it because you’re American and blessed with this insane gift of liberty and freedom, and rule of law and the Constitution. If you’re a patriotic American, you don’t get to say ‘It’s too hard for me.’”

that existed before. It cannot be again.”

The only hope for old school Republicans who don’t like this new direction is that the newer age Republicans FAFO.

“If they pay a political price for being stupid, they might change. Until the stupidity tax is collected, it’s going to be very difficult,” Wilson said.

WHAT ABOUT DEMOCRATS?

There’s not a lot of hope for the other party either, to hear Wilson describe it. And he’s not alone. Poll after poll shows even Democrats have lost at least some faith in their party. And a consistent majority in polls indicate they don’t believe the Democratic Party has an adequate leader — someone like former President  Barack Obama — to see the party into the future and get the country back on track.

Wilson joked that there was no hope for the party “getting their shit together.” And it’s no secret that while he shares the party faithfuls’ disdain for Trump, he doesn’t exactly think they’ve got it going on either. Nevertheless, there’s some hope.

“You have to show that the things that people accepted under Trump, and from Trump, are still not where the culture politically and socially is. It’s hard for somebody to make the sale, to say you know, Vladimir Putin is really a great guy. None of that works,” he said.

Wilson, of course, wasn’t referring to the Trump base — where those comments can work — but to mainstream America, where even Trump supporters sometimes dismiss his more outlandish comments.

Wilson lamented that “Democrats are tone deaf politically and culturally more times than not.” But he said the party and its supporters have an opportunity to “break off a small number, and then a larger number someday,” of people who may be tiring of the Trump antics and longing for less hostile days.

There’s another admittedly morbid chance for Dems to swing the pendulum away from Trump and back toward their own ideals: people dying.

“Three other things that affect the normative forces in Trump world — authoritarianism and autocracy — are Fox, Facebook and Twitter,” Wilson said.

Facebook, he dryly stated, is self-limiting because those who use it as a primary source for news are older Americans. Same with Fox News, whose viewers Wilson said are “knocking on death’s door loudly.” Twitter — now X under new owner Elon Musk, who has famously feuded with Trump after being allies for months — has its own problem.

“Trump may or may not be at war with its owner,” he mused, adding that those types of dramas “really get people wrapped around the axel.” That includes, as Wilson bluntly stated, the question as to whether “Stephen Miller’s wife might be fucking Elon.”

OVERCOMING THE LURE OF FEAR AND HATE

Wilson doesn’t want “to be scared shitless all day long,” and he doesn’t think others do either.

“As we go through this world, there’s a sense of exhaustion and of paranoia,

and a lot of that is deliberate. They’re (Republicans) building themselves a political culture that relies on scaring the shit out of people every day, and that’s an ugly place to be,” Wilson said.

“Eventually you exhaust the cutesy culture war bullshit and have to face up to the fact that none of this is working for everyday Americans.”

But for now, hate and fear are more powerful than hope and love. It’s hard to overcome, but Wilson suggests that Americans looking for a different direction focus on the feats this great nation has overcome throughout its history: defeating Soviet Communism, establishing civil rights, abolishing slavery, winning the Revolutionary War, and so much more.

Remember that, and fight back.

“It’s not easy, it’s not fun, but you do it because you’re American and blessed with this insane gift of liberty and freedom, and rule of law and the Constitution. If you’re a patriotic American, you don’t get to say ‘It’s too hard for me,’” Wilson said.

And while they’re at it, those patriotic Americans will also have to learn — and fight — to overcome the lies.

Wilson called lying the GOP’s “shameless superpower.”

“They don’t care about lying. They don’t care about being caught lying. They don’t care about the consequences of it to the country and the culture. If you’re a Republican who’s comfortable with that, you can get away with amazing shit,” he said. “But most people feel discomforted by lies, that lies are beneath who we are as Americans.”

Overcoming misinformation, disinformation and all-out lies is a tall order. Lying in politics is nothing new, it just used to be called spin. There was once a fine line between lies and spin, delineated by things like omitting context or cherry-picking data.

Nowadays there’s still traditional spin — on both sides of the political spectrum — but lies, Wilson said, seem to be more consistent from the political right.

He suggests being smarter, and not accepting the lie.

“Don’t say, ‘How dare you,’ but say, ‘We both know you’re full of shit,’” he said. From there, spell out “what’s really happening.” Say, “instead of insulting people with lies, I’m going to push back with the truth.”

PILLARS OF ADVOCACY IN FLORIDA

In Tallahassee and throughout the state, Holland & Knight’s Florida Government Advocacy Team represents clients before Florida’s state and local governments, carefully guiding and supporting them through complex issues that affect their interests.

Backed by a deep bench – including some of Florida’s most experienced litigators and regulatory attorneys – our team of public policy advisors and lawyers draws on strong relationships and political and legal know-how to advocate for our clients.

www.hklaw.com

Jonathan Steverson, Senior Policy Advisor

Kimberly Case*, Senior Policy Advisor

Tallahassee, FL | +1.850.224.7000

* Not an attorney.

Jonathan Steverson

Kimberly Case

MADISON’S INDEX

Jimmy Buffett’s iconic “Margaritaville” was born from a sun-soaked trip to Key West, where flip-flops, frozen drinks, and laid-back living inspired a whole vibe. Turns out, paradise really does write the best songs.

There is a Florida town named “Two Egg.” This tiny town in Jackson County got its name during the Great Depression when people bartered eggs for goods.

Why use an elevator to get to your room when you can scuba dive instead? Jules’ Undersea Lodge in Key Largo is an underwater hotel where you dive to your room.

Miami is the only major U.S. city founded by a woman. Julia Tuttle, a local citrus grower and landowner, was instrumental in persuading Henry Flagler to extend his railroad there.

Florida’s got bragging rights to the only natural coral reef in the continental U.S. Spanning nearly 360 miles, it’s the third-largest barrier reef in the world basically the Great Barrier Reef’s cool cousin.

Wakulla Spring, aka the “Gem of Northwest Florida,” isn’t just pretty it’s the largest and deepest freshwater spring on Earth.

They don’t call Florida the “lightning capital” for nothing. With over 1.2 million zaps a year, the Sunshine State is more like the flash state. Bring a raincoat… and maybe a surge protector.

Florida has beaches and billions: as of 2024, Florida’s GDP ranks around #14 globally, ahead of countries like Mexico and South Korea.

Other than Hawaii, Florida is the only state in the lower 48 with a true tropical climate found in the southernmost part of the state.

Florida has the most toll roads of any state in the United States. Florida's toll road system spans over 700 miles, making it the state with the highest mileage of toll roads! 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Advancing Pediatric Cancer Care in Florida

Florida’s Specialty Hospitals for Children are driving the future of pediatric cancer treatment and research to ensure no child has to leave Florida for world-class, specialized cancer care.

As the only Florida specialty children’s hospitals solely focused on investing in and providing pediatric care, we are committed to making Florida a national leader in pediatric cancer research, innovation and treatment.

Serving the majority of Florida children with complex cancer conditions

The four hospitals in the state with the highest Medicaid utilization

1 in 4 Florida children will be treated in Florida’s specialty children’s hospitals

flspecialtyhospitals4children.com

Veterans report better care access through rideshare program

A new study shows how Uber Health helped deliver more than 263,000 rides to veterans in just two years—mostly for specialty, dialysis and primary care patients. This program led to a drop in missed appointments, outcomes improved, and health system costs fell by $129 million.

Learn more about the program