Age: 32
Residence: Dania Beach
Time in the Legislature: Four years
Political Affiliation: Democrat
Spouse: Single
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A legislator. I was always interested in politics.
What do you consider to be your biggest political achievement?
Getting elected and then getting re-elected. It was such a thrill getting elected the first time, but to get that vote of confidence from my constituents by being re-elected really boosted my confidence. I'd also have to say being named floor leader for the minority was a big achievement.
What was your biggest political faux pas?
Probably not being more accessible to the media. I'll speak to any reporter who seeks me out, but maybe I should seek them out a bit more than I do.
Who in state government do you most admire?
George Sheldon, the secretary of the Department of Children and Families. I think he does an outstanding job in a very difficult position. He was also an effective member of the Legislature.
Who in all the world do you most admire?
Well, he left us a while ago, but I'd have to say Dwight Eisenhower. He was a great general during the Second World War, when he served in Europe, but he was also an outstanding president. He solved a lot of the country's problems with his guns-and-butter diplomacy.
Who is your favorite lawmaker of the opposite party and why?
Once again, I'd have to say Dwight Eisenhower. He's a forgotten leader by many people, but if you read about his leadership and vision, you might agree with me.
What do you remember as being your wackiest constituent request?
People frequently mix up the lawmakers in Tallahassee with those in Washington, so I've gotten a lot of calls urging me to vote for, or againt, President Obama's health-care plan.
What is your favorite place in the world?
Broward County. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else.
What is your least favorite household chore?
Doing the dishes. At least when you take out the garbage, you get some exercise.
John Hinds can be reached at jhinds1949@aol.com, or at (850) 274-2966.
