Jacob Ogles
Florida Watch has a new leader on guard.
The progressive watchdog promoted Natasha Sutherland to the role of Executive Director. She will succeed Josh Weierbach, who has led Florida Watch for the last five years. Sutherland, formerly the organization’s Deputy Director, brings experience as both an advocate and a teacher.
“As a military brat, a daughter of immigrants and a military spouse, I have seen firsthand what the American Dream can be, what it costs and what it means to give back and am resolute and ready to bring those experiences to leading Florida Watch,” Sutherland said.
“While I have travelled the world, Florida is the home in my heart. This state, and the hardworking families and seniors who comprise the incredible tapestry of lived experiences that make it so special, is worth fighting for and deserves leaders who are putting their needs first.”
Weierbach said he is leaving the organization in capable hands.
“I am extremely proud of all that we have accomplished over the last five years at Florida Watch and I know that there is no one more qualified or prepared to build on those successes as an organization than Natasha Sutherland,” said Weierbach, who will remain a senior advisor.
“Natasha’s unique perspective on the issues that matter to Floridians, ability to assess and execute on forward-thinking strategies, and dedication to improving the lives of others is unmatched and I could not be more excited to see how she is going to take Florida Watch to another level.”
Besides teaching in public schools and at the college level, Sutherland has worked in state politics since 2017. She worked in the House and at the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services before being hired as Black Constituency Communications Director in 2021.
Promoted to Deputy Director in 2022, she worked as Communications Director and Senior Communications Advisor for the Yes on 4 campaign, which supported a constitutional amendment to overturn Florida’s six-week abortion ban.
That measure earned 57% support in November, but did not meet the 60% threshold needed to pass.
Sutherland’s work garnered respect in Democratic politics.
“During her service at the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, I always knew we could count on Natasha to center the needs of the people of our state in all of the work she did,” said Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried, who was Agriculture Commissioner when Sutherland worked at the state agency.
“There can be no doubt that Floridians are well-served by Natasha continuing to use her immense talents to fight for the brighter future that every working family deserves.”
In the Legislature, House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell said of Sutherland, “Natasha’s work has been invaluable in our mission to fight for working families and seniors throughout our state and I am excited to see her take her leadership to the next level.”
Sen. Tracie Davis, Democratic Senate President-designate, added her support.
“From the time we worked together while I served in the House, I have always known that Natasha Sutherland was a thoughtful and impactful leader who would help bring immense positive change to Florida,” said Davis, a former House lawmaker.
“As we fight to bring down costs, raise wages, and give every Floridian the freedom to achieve their version of the American Dream, Natasha will be there every step of the way living her values on behalf of the people of our state.”
Leadership in Florida’s progressive groups also voiced enthusiasm about Sutherland’s promotion.
“From her first day as a member of the Hub, it was clear that Natasha was a changemaker who would drive our mission forward in new and compelling ways,” said Progress Florida Executive Director Mark Ferrulo. “I could not be more excited to continue our work together and I know that the people of our state will always be put first under her leadership at Florida Watch.”
Leaders of other groups said they looked forward to collaboration.
“As the leader of a civil rights organization dedicated to defending our democracy, amplifying Black voices, and fostering civic engagement, I have always been able to count on Natasha Sutherland to stand beside us in the fight,” said Equal Ground Executive Director Genesis Robinson.
“Your values shape your voice, and under Natasha’s leadership, Florida Watch is poised to show the state what it means to fight for a more fair, just, and equitable Florida that puts the people over the powerful.”
“No state is more threatened by impacts from the climate crisis than Florida, which is why it is vital that there are strong advocates like Natasha Sutherland leading the charge to find solutions,” said Climate and Clean Energy Equity Fund President and CEO Andrea Mercado.
“I have seen firsthand the values-driven energy that Natasha brings to her work serving the people of Florida and it is that type of relentless dedication to creating positive change that is needed to preserve the state we know and love for generations to come.”
