Age: 51
Residence: New Port Richey
Time in the Legislature: 16 years
Political Affiliation: Republican
Spouse: Single
Children: None
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
I wanted to be a prosecuting attorney. My desire was to be in the courtroom.
What do you consider to be your biggest political achievement?
Getting elected to the Legislature. I was raised by a single mother, quit school when I was 15 and didn't get my GED until I was 28. Getting elected was a really big deal for me.
What was your biggest political faux pas?
I've had many, but the ones that stand out are when I supported legislation that in the long run didn't have the effect that I thought they would. You can't believe everyone or everything you're told.
Who in state government do you most admire?
Daniel Webster. He was the speaker when I first served in the House of Representatives and was an outstanding leader.
Who in all the world do you most admire?
The late President Ronald Reagan. He was the first president I got to cast a vote for. He really had great vision for our country.
Who is your favorite lawmaker of the opposite party and why?
Bob Graham. I thought he had the ability to relate to people of all walks of life. I also thought he really cared about the state.
What do you remember as being your wackiest constituent request?
I once had a very conservative couple come into my office and tell me quite seriously that they believed the Russians were airlifting ants into our country that were sent here to corrupt our computer systems. I listened and told them I'd look into it.
What is your favorite place in the world?
I really love Florida, but as far as visiting another place, I enjoy New York City. I'm a big New York Mets fan and try to go to a couple of their games. I also really enjoy the Broadway theater, and of course they have a lot of great restaurants there.
What is your least favorite household chore?
I really don't like cleaning windows. I'd rather do just about anything else.
