With Republicans staying in control of the Florida Senate, incoming Senate President Bill Galvano, R-Bradenton, tapped Sen. David Simmons, R-Longwood, to be his top subordinate.
Galvano named Simmons to serve as president pro tempore on Wednesday.
“The role of Senate president pro tempore is a position of significant trust and authority. Together with the president and the Rules chair, the pro tempore is responsible for ensuring that we abide by the letter and spirit of the Senate Rules to ensure all Senators have the opportunity to advocate for their constituents,” said Galvano.
“Senator Simmons and I have both had the honor of serving as Rules chair,” Galvano added. “We share a love of history and an appreciation for the rules and procedures that govern the legislative process. As president pro tempore he will ensure we maintain the high standards of fair and open civil discourse expected of the Florida Senate.”
“Over the years, David has been a reliable partner in working through challenging public policy and budget issues," Galvano continued. “We have all seen David’s unmatched work ethic and tireless determination to fiercely advocate for the issues and causes he supports. However, those of us who have served with David in both the House and the Senate have also witnessed the countless occasions where he demonstrates the same tenacity and dedication when speaking up for his fellow representatives or senators if he feels that a colleague has been treated unfairly. I am confident David will approach the position of president pro tempore with a level of respect we will all admire.”
Simmons is a familiar figure in Tallahassee. First winning a seat in the Florida House back in 2000, he served eight years before winning a Senate seat in 2010. Since then, Simmons has been a key leader, starting as deputy majority whip and moving on to lead the Senate Rules Committee.
An attorney by training, Simmons represents parts of Seminole and Volusia Counties.
