Age: 41
Residence: St. Petersburg
Time in the Legislature: 10 years
Political Affiliation: Democrat
Spouse: Kathleen
Children: Allison, Eric
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
I always wanted to be involved in politics, and I was the president of several clubs in high school.
What do you consider to be your biggest political achievement?
I voted against the government getting involved in the Terri Schiavo case.
What was your biggest political faux pas?
My first speech in the House of Represenatives. It didn't go well.
Who in state government do you most admire?
Former Gov. Lawton Chiles. He was a skilled politician and he took the time to listen to people.
Who in all the world do you most admire?
I admire people who get up every morning and face challenges and work their way through them.
Who is your favorite lawmaker of the opposite party and why?
Gov. Charlie Crist, because he votes his conscience as he did in vetoing SB 6.
What do you remember as being your wackiest constituent request?
I had a guy who wanted the state to invest in his dating service.
What is your favorite place in the world?
The beaches in Pinellas County when I'm with my wife and children.
What is your least favorite household chore?
The thing I dislike the most is washing dishes.
Reach John Hinds at JHinds1949@aol.com or by calling 850-274-2966.
