Sen. Shevrin "Shev" Jones (D-Miami Gardens) announced will not be seeking re-election in Senate District 34 in an emotional message shared on social media this week.
"Everything I've done over these last 13 years has been rooted in one simple belief, and that that people deserve leadership that fights for them, listens to them, and never forget where they came from," Jones said. I've always said I would go as far as the people would take me, and if these 13 years have taught me anything, it's this: when ordinary people come together with courage and purpose, there is nothing we cannot change."
Sen. Jones has served SD 34 since 2022, and in the Senate since 2020.
SD 34 covers part of Miami-Dade County, including Miami Gardens. His legislative achievements include sponsoring the Teddy Bridgewater Act during the 2026 session.
Sen. Jones also served District 101 in the Florida House of Representatives from 2012 to 2020.
While Jones is stepping aside in the Legislature, his time in politics may be far from done. The 42-year-old is reportedly considering a run for Congress in a seat held by longtime Democratic Rep. Fredrica Wilson.
Rep. Wilson, 83, has been in Congress since 2011, and is currently running for another term in District 24, despite speculation she might be putting her hat down and calling it a quits. Wilson is known for wearing colorful cowboy hats as an elected official.
Jones was designated by the Florida Senate Democratic Caucus to become Senate Democratic Leader for the 2028-2030 legislative term prior to his decision to not seek reelection. A replacement will now need to be named.
"While one chapter of service may be coming to a close in my life, I believe another chapter may just be beginning, and when that time comes, I hope you'll walk with me again," Jones said. "I love you all and thank you so much for supporting me over these last years."
