Chamber taps former Daniel Webster aide as new influencer

U.S. Rep. Daniel Webster‘s former chief of staff has been named the Florida Chamber of Commerce’s vice president of government affairs, the Chamber announced in a Friday press release.

Frank Walker III also worked for three other U.S. lawmakers: Former U.S. Sens. George LeMieux and Mel Martinez of Florida, and U.S. Rep. Dave Reichert of Washington state.

“After more than a decade in Washington, I know the solutions to the challenges facing Florida and our nation come from the state and local level,” Walker said in a prepared statement.

“I am excited to join the Florida Chamber’s unparalleled team … to advance these solutions, unleash free enterprise and secure Florida’s future as a leader in our 21st century, global economy.”

The Chamber called the hire part of a “larger, more aggressive move by the Florida Chamber to prepare for Florida’s next election cycles and legislative sessions.”

More from the release:

Additionally, Walker’s experience includes serving on multiple congressional campaigns, including campaigns for Webster, Reichert, Steve Southerland for Congress and Bob Corker for U.S. Senate.

“Combining the Florida Chamber’s longstanding pro-business advocacy efforts with Frank’s experience and talent puts Florida’s businesses in a winning position,” said Representative Dan Webster (R-FL-10).

“The Florida Chamber’s board of directors and veteran team of professionals are dedicated to securing Florida’s future, and Frank Walker shares that passion for growing the private sector, creating jobs to help Florida families prosper and making Florida a global leader,” said Mark Wilson, President and CEO of the Florida Chamber. “Adding Frank’s expertise will further enhance our focus on making Florida more competitive.”

Walker joins the Florida Chamber’s government affairs team, which is spearheaded by David Hart, Executive Vice President. He will oversee a team of 25+ pro-business advocates … Frank is a Tallahassee native, a graduate of Davidson College, in Davidson, N.C., and he and his wife Katie have a daughter Fiona, and are expecting their second child.