Senate President-designate Ben Albritton names Sen. Ileana Garcia chair of Criminal & Civil Justice Appropriations

MIAMI - Senate President-designate Ben Albritton, R-Bartow, recently announced that Sen. Ileana Garcia, R-Miami, will chair the Criminal & Civil Justice Appropriations Committee for the upcoming 2025 Florida Legislative Session.

"Sen. @IleanaGarciaUSA will chair Criminal & Civil Justice Approps. Without law and order, nothing else we do matters," Albritton said. "She is a passionate advocate for law enforcement, and will work hard to make certain our LE agencies and judicial system have resources they need to keep us safe."

Garcia represents Senate District 36, which covers part of Miami-Dade County. In 2022, Garcia handily defeated Democratic candidate Raquel Pachecho for the seat by eighteen points.

Garcia has also announced a run for a second term, which will occur in 2026.

Previously, Garcia served as the first Hispanic female Deputy Press Secretary at the Department of Homeland Security under President Donald Trump during his first term. She also launched Latinas from Trump in 2016, which later led to her becoming the Trump campaign's Director for Latino outreach.

Born in Miami, Garcia graduated from Miami Senior High School in 1987. She also was a radio and TV broadcaster prior to getting into politics.

Earlier this month, Garcia came out against the passage of Amendment 3, which would have legalized recreational Marijuana in the state.

"I appreciate the chance to serve in this capacity, @Senator Albritton - Thank you for the grace! Together, we will focus on enacting services, programs and laws that promote safety while upholding values of integrity and respect," Garcia said. "Our commitment will extend to rehabilitation, healing, and providing individuals with second chances to reintegrate into society. Keeping everyone safe."

Albritton replaces former Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples, who was announced to serve as the Rules Chair. He also made additional appointments for the upcoming session, including tapping Sen. Jason Brodeur, R-Lake Mary, as the next President Pro Tempore.

Other selections by Albritton included Sen. Joe Gruters, R-Sarasota, for the Fiscal Policy Committee, and Sen. Ed Hooper, R-Palm Harbor, as the Appropriations Chair.

In addition, Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, was named to replace Albritton as the Florida Senate GOP Leader.

The 2025 Florida Legislative Session will take place from March 4 to May 2 in Tallahassee.