State Sen. Bill Galvano, R-Bradenton, has not finished his second full year in the Legislature, but he continues to land top leadership posts and flash clout that few have obtained in such a short period.
Galvano last week was named the Florida Senate’s majority leader, a position that makes him a pivotal lieutenant for the Senate president. Galvano will help draft the Senate’s agenda and organize the Republican votes.
“I’m very excited about this opportunity,” Galvano said.
Practically speaking, it puts Galvano in the middle of just about every public policy issue that comes before the Senate.
Galvano, who was re-elected this year without opposition, has been fast climbing the leadership ranks in Tallahassee. Last year he was the chairman of the state education appropriations committee and has already lined up enough votes to become the likely Senate president in 2018.
During the 2014 legislative session, Galvano was largely responsible for crafting a state budget that included $18.9 billion for public schools, the most ever, and an increase of $176 per student, to $6,937. Galvano was also a key player in helping pass an expansion of the school voucher program.
Though his new position brings new partisan duties for Galvano, the Bradenton attorney said he does not think it will change how he approaches the process or his ability to work with Democrats. Galvano said he already has a good working relationship with Sen. Arthenia Joyner, who is the Senate Democratic leader.
Call to arms
The Tampa-based pro-school voucher group that invested thousands into electing Bridget Ziegler to the Sarasota County School Board is making clear it is not done getting involved in local contests.
• Ret. Col. Derek Harvey speaks to the Longboat Key Republican Club about the Middle East and U.S. foreign policy. The meeting starts at 11:30 a.m. at Portofino Restaurant & Grill, 2600 Harbourside Dr., Longboat Key.
