Champion of Free Enterprise Earns Top Marks (Image Credits: Upload.wikimedia.org)
Florida – State Representative Josie Tomkow secured a significant endorsement from the Florida Chamber of Commerce for the special election in Senate District 14.[1][2]
Champion of Free Enterprise Earns Top Marks
Tomkow built a strong reputation in the Florida House through consistent support for business interests. As a seventh-generation Floridian and third-generation cattle rancher, she brought practical insights to her role. Lawmakers elected her Chair of the Health & Human Services Committee, where she shaped policies on social services and regulations.[1]
The Florida Chamber awarded her a lifetime A-rating on its Legislative Report Card. This score reflected her votes that defended free enterprise and promoted economic growth. Her alignment with the group’s priorities positioned her as a natural choice for higher office. Voters in her House district reelected her multiple times before she pursued the Senate seat.
Chamber Leadership Highlights Her Senate Potential
Mark Wilson, President and CEO of the Florida Chamber, praised Tomkow’s record in a formal statement. “The Florida Chamber of Commerce endorses Josie Tomkow as Senate District 14’s next state Senator because of her proven record of defending free enterprise in Florida during her time in the Florida House,” Wilson said. “We are confident she will continue to be a leader in ensuring Florida’s local businesses continue to thrive as a member of the Florida Senate and we look forward to working alongside her to further Florida’s momentum.”[1]
Tomkow welcomed the backing with enthusiasm. “The Florida Chamber has been a champion for all job creators and all industries across our state, and I’ve been proud to work with them to build a better quality of life for Floridians and look forward to continuing to do so as District 14’s next state Senator,” she responded.[1]
This endorsement arrived as the state’s largest business advocacy group ramped up involvement in key races. The organization focused on candidates who prioritized economic momentum.
Senate District 14: A Battleground for Republican Priorities
The vacancy in SD 14 stemmed from former Senator Jay Collins’ appointment as Lieutenant Governor. The district spans parts of Hillsborough and Polk counties, areas vital to Florida’s agriculture and urban economies. Republicans held a lean advantage, with nearly 39% of voters registered as such, compared to 32% Democrats and 29% independents.[1]
President Donald Trump carried the district 53% to 46% in the 2024 general election. Tomkow faced no Republican primary challengers, clearing a path to the March 24 general election.[3] Her pro-business stance aligned with the area’s mix of ranchers, small businesses, and growing suburbs.
Key Strengths Driving the Endorsement
The Chamber valued several aspects of Tomkow’s approach:
- Consistent defense of local businesses against excessive regulations.
- Leadership in health and human services policy that balanced oversight with innovation.
- Collaboration on initiatives to enhance quality of life and economic opportunity.
- Lifetime A-rating demonstrating reliability on core issues.
- Deep roots as a multi-generation Floridian attuned to state needs.
These factors underscored why the group saw her as essential for sustaining Florida’s business-friendly environment in the Senate.
Key Takeaways
- Florida Chamber’s endorsement signals strong business support for Tomkow’s Senate bid.
- Her House record includes a perfect A-rating and committee leadership.
- SD 14 offers a Republican-leaning opportunity to advance pro-enterprise policies.
The Florida Chamber’s decision reinforces Tomkow’s momentum in a race critical to Florida’s legislative balance. As the special election approaches, her focus on thriving local businesses could sway undecided voters. This backing from a powerhouse organization positions her to carry forward proven strategies to the upper chamber. What role do business endorsements play in shaping Florida’s political landscape? Share your thoughts in the comments.
