Incoming Florida Senate President Ben Albritton, the former GOP majority leader, announced Thursday which senators will fill five leadership roles in the state legislature for the 2025 session.
The announcement is necessary for Florida's Republican-dominated upper chamber, considering nine state Senators have termed out. Sen. Albritton took to social media Thursday afternoon to first ask that Sen. Jason Brodeur (R-Lake Mary) become the next President Pro Tempore.
"His authenticity and positivity, combined with deep knowledge and experience, make him a perfect fit," Albritton said, hoping that Brodeur replaces the termed-out Republican Rep. Dennis Baxley. The Pro Tempore presides over the Senate in the President's absence.
He also said that former Senate President Kathleen Passidomo (R-Naples) will serve as the Rules Chair, replacing Sen. Debbie Mayfield, who is set to be sworn in as a state Rep. on Nov. 19 after terming out the last session. The Rules Committee is the largest and often the last stop for most bills hoping to become laws. The Chair also decides to schedule which bills to which committees.
"I am grateful she is willing to step back into an important, extremely time-consuming role. Her dedication and keen attention to detail will continue to serve the Senate well," said Albritton.
Sen. Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota), a strong Trump ally and former Chair of the Florida GOP, will serve as the head of the Fiscal Policy Committee in Sen. Travis Hutson's stead, who termed out last year. Gruters was the first Florida Republican to side with President-elect Donald Trump on Florida's proposed marijuana amendment against Gov. Ron DeSantis. In a DeSantis victory, the amendment failed with nearly 56% of the vote.
"Our Fiscal Policy Committee will continue to provide an alternative path for bills with a fiscal impact, allowing time for robust discussion on budget items and policy initiatives prior to the floor. [Sen. Gruters] will lead this important committee!" Albritton announced.
Sen. Ed Hooper (R-Palm Harbor) will serve as the Appropriations Chair, spearheading the development of the state budget after Rep. Doug Broxson termed out, said Albritton.
"He has been a mentor to so many of us over the years. I trust his instincts," the Senate President added.
Lastly, Sen. Jim Boyd (R-Bradenton) will replace Albritton as the Florida Senate GOP Leader, because he "is ready to lead our Caucus in this important role."
