Lizbeth Benacquisto New Deputy GOP Leader in Florida Senate

On Wednesday, Sen. Lizbeth Benacquisto, R-Wellington, was named as a deputy majority leader in the Florida Senate.

Benacquisto, who represents parts of Charlotte, Glades, Hendry, Lee, Palm Beach and St. Lucie counties, was elected to the Senate in 2010. Shell serve under Senate Majority Leader Andy Gardiner, R-Orlando, and in the leadership with two fellow freshmen who are whips -- Anitere Flores of Miami and David Simmons of Maitland.

In her inaugural session, Senator Benacquistos energy was unmistakable, said Senate President Mike Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island. She treats her constituents with respect and is devoted to serving Floridians. Senator Benacquisto embraces her role as state senator wholeheartedly, and I know her colleagues in the Senate majority will benefit from her characteristic focus and drive.

We are heading into another exciting year for Florida Republicans, said Gardiner. We have the opportunity to be exceptionally effective by working together, and as conservatives, we also have the responsibility to use that power to make sound, deliberate decisions our kids can be proud of. I know Senator Benacquisto will serve her colleagues well in this role, and I look forward to working with her in this new capacity to advance Republican Caucus priorities.