The Florida Chamber of Commerce has endorsed Rep. James Buchanan (R-Sarasota) in his State Senate District 22 bid, announcing the support through a release this week.
“James Buchanan has free enterprise in his blood and entrepreneurialism in his DNA, making him a natural choice for the Florida Chamber to endorse as Senate District 22’s next state senator,” Florida Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Mark Wilson said. “As someone who has signed the front of a paycheck, James has demonstrated a proven record of defending free enterprise during his time in the Florida House, and we are confident he will continue to be a leader in ensuring Florida’s local businesses continue to thrive as a member of the Florida Senate.”
Rep. Buchanan is looking to replace Sen. Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota), who is term-limited and not seeking reelection in 2026. Gruters, the current chair of the Republican National Committee, endorsed Buchanan to succeed him last September.
Rep. Buchanan has also been endorsed by top members of the Florida Senate, including Senate President Ben Albritton and Sens. Jim Boyd (R-Bradenton) and Jay Trumbull (R-Panama City) in November 2025.
Rep. Buchanan released a football-themed campaign video in his bid late last year.
There are currently no other competitors in the race.
SD 22 covers Sarasota County and part of Manatee County on the southwest side of Florida.
Buchanan thanked the Chamber of Commerce for their endorsement.
“It’s an incredible honor to receive the Florida Chamber’s endorsement,” Buchanan said. “My father, Congressman Vern Buchanan, is a past Chair of the Florida Chamber, and like him, I am proud to support their critical, pro-business mission. As a free-market conservative, I firmly believe we can fuel prosperity by empowering job creators, reducing taxes, and eliminating burdensome regulations."
U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, James' father, serves Florida's 16th congressional district, and he has announced that he won't be seeking reelection for his seat in January.
"The Florida Chamber has been an extraordinary resource and partner of mine in the Florida House, and I look forward to continuing our important work together as a member of the Florida Senate!" Buchanan concluded.
