With the 2015 legislative session behind state lawmakers, Florida Republican senators are wasting no time, already gearing up for 2016 campaign efforts. In a move widely expected to energize Republican Senate fundraising efforts come next year, Sen. Bill Galvano, R-Bradenton, will take the helm of the 2016 Florida Republican Senatorial Campaign Committee.
Sen. President Andy Gardiner, R-Orlando, announced Galvano’s selection in an email sent to GOP caucus members Monday afternoon.
“Now that session is behind us, it's time to focus our attention on acquiring the resources necessary to continue our success at the ballot box,” wrote Gardiner. “It is critical that we remain focused and committed to our Senate majority.”
Gardiner said he was secure in selecting Galvano to head the FRSCC and believed the Bradenton Republican has what it takes to ensure campaign success for Republicans come 2016.
“I am confident he, with the continued involvement of Senator Benacquisto, will ensure that the FRSCC has the resources and infrastructure necessary as we head into the 2016 campaign cycle,” wrote Gardiner.
Galvano was first elected to the Florida House in 2002, where he served for eight years. In 2012, he was elected to the Florida Senate.
Observers say Galvano is a logical choice since he has already garnered broad support of the Republican Caucus. As Senate majority leader, Galvano has serious influence in the Senate and is widely expected to be elected the Senate president in 2018.
Galvano’s appointment comes on the heels of a back-and-forth between Sens. Joe Negron, R-Palm City and Jack Latvala, R-Clearwater, both of whom are competing for the title of 2016 Senate president. Negron already has a majority of the votes pledged to him but Latvala refuses to concede.
Congratulatory remarks have already started coming in for Galvano. Sen. Wilton Simpson, R-New Port Richey, tweeted his support for Galvano Monday afternoon.
“Congrats Senate Majority Leader @BillGalvano. I know you will lead the Republican Senatorial Campaign Committee to victory in 2016,” he wrote.
Sen. Rob Bradley, R-Orange Park, also joined in congratulating Galvano on the appointment.
“@BillGalvano will do a great job leading the Republican Senatorial Campaign Committee as we prepare for 2016,” Bradley tweeted. “Congrats my friend!”
Reach Tampa-based reporter Allison Nielsen by email at allison@sunshinestatenews.com or follow her on Twitter: @AllisonNielsen
