Senate Democrats pick Tracie Davis to lead caucus in 2026

A state Senator from Jacksonville is in the on-deck circle to lead her Democratic colleagues in the Senate, starting in two years.

As announced on Wednesday night, the Florida Senate Democratic Caucus unanimously elected Sen. Tracie Davis to lead the caucus starting in the 2026-2028 term.

 “I am inspired by my colleagues, and honored in their faith in me with this election. I have dedicated my life to public service to the citizens of Duval County, and I am delighted to have this title to fight for all of our constituents across the state of Florida,” said Davis, who will succeed Sen. Jason Pizzo in that leadership role, and who will follow in the footsteps of her predecessor from Jacksonville, Audrey Gibson, who led the caucus between 2018 and 2020.

Current Leader Lauren Book said “Davis has always been a fighter, not only for the residents in her district, but for the more than 21 million Floridians across our state.”

“Tracie’s energy is like a lightning rod – she’s welcoming, kind, compassionate and smart – and she knows how to get good work done to make the Florida dream a reality – accessible, affordable, and safe. With Tracie succeeding Senator Jason Pizzo as leader, Floridians can rest assured the Senate Democrats will be advocating for their best interests,” Book added.

“When Tracie started, she hit the ground running. She negotiated good policy for Floridians and she faced obstacles head on. I am thrilled to have such an enthusiastic and fervent leader in charge of this mighty group of Democrats in the Florida Senate. I look forward to her help in continuing to rebuild the Senate Democratic Caucus, so that Florida can return to a balanced state of reason,” Pizzo added.

Sen. Tina Polsky said she was “so proud to vote for Senator Davis as our next leader of the Senate Democrats.”

“She is so hard-working and smart and caring, I know she will lead us well,” Polsky added.

Senator Bobby Powell said, “I’ve seen the work of Senator Davis in action – so I have complete faith that she will lead the Senate Democrats into a future of greatness, growth and prosperity.”

Senator Geraldine Thompson said, “Senator Davis understands the importance of relationships and has worked to build connections with legislators in both chambers and political parties. I am confident that she will work to increase the number of Democrats in the Senate which will mean more influence in the process.”