Florida Politics - Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government.

Drew WilsonJuly 9, 2018

Faith Olivia Babis is about to get hit with a bill she could have easily avoided. The Sarasota Democrat, who is running in the special election for Senate District 23, was a week late in filing her most recent campaign finance report, and state law imposes hefty fees on candidates for being tardy. Florida statute […]

Drew WilsonJuly 9, 2018

Republican attorney Tommy Gregory is rolling out his first TV ad in the race for Sarasota-based House District 73. The 30-second ad features Gregory’s wife, Erica, outlining his conservative credentials and explaining why she was on board when her husband floated the idea of seeking public office. “When Tommy asked me if he should run for public […]

Drew WilsonJune 28, 2018

Sarasota Republican Melissa Howard announced Thursday that she had earned the backing of Lt. Gov. Carlos Lopez-Cantera in her campaign to succeed Rep. Joe Gruters in House District 73. “Melissa Howard is the business owner, community leader, and conservative champion that will best serve her constituents in District 73. I am pleased to endorse Melissa’s […]

Drew WilsonJune 28, 2018

Republican Tommy Gregory announced Wednesday that Sarasota County Property Appraiser Bill Furst is endorsing his campaign to succeed Rep. Joe Gruters in House District 73. “I’m proud to endorse Tommy Gregory,” said Furst. “There is no question in my mind that he has what it takes to serve us very well in Tallahassee. His leadership background […]

Drew WilsonJune 5, 2018

Republican Melissa Howard has scheduled a June 13 fundraiser for her campaign to succeed state Rep. Joe Gruters in House District 73. The reception will be held at Medallion Homes, 1651 Whitfield Ave., in Sarasota from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Supporters can RSVP by emailing [email protected] or calling 941-587-8166. Making the host committee for […]

Drew WilsonMay 29, 2018

Former U.S. Sen. Connie Mack III on Tuesday endorsed Tommy Gregory in the race for House District 73. “Tommy Gregory is a patriot and a proven leader,” Mack said. “His military experience has effectively prepared him to enter this new sphere of public service, and there’s no question in my mind that he will be […]

Drew WilsonMay 22, 2018

Republican Rep. Joe Gruters is kicking off his state Senate campaign with a May 31 fundraiser in Sarasota. The reception will be held at the home of Alicia “AJ” Janson at Laurel Oak Country Club from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Those looking to attend can send in an RSVP for themselves and a guest […]

Drew WilsonMay 17, 2018

Republican Tommy Gregory announced Thursday that former Manatee Sherriff Brad Steube has endorsed his campaign to replace Rep. Joe Gruters in House District 73. “Tommy Gregory’s character and values will make him a very effective legislator,” Steube said. “His military career demonstrates his commitment to public service, and I believe he will bring the same […]

Drew WilsonMay 14, 2018

Manatee County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh weighed in on the Republican Primary battle for House District 73, announcing Monday she is backing Melissa Howard. “Today I am proud to announce my endorsement of Melissa Howard for House District 73. Melissa has a proven track record as a leader who cares for our community and its values. […]

Jim RosicaMay 14, 2018

From karaoke to ballroom dancing to ice sculpting, the hobbies of Florida’s legislators are legion. A Florida Politics reporter recently noticed and tweeted that Rep. Carlos G. Smith, an Orlando Democrat, listed but one “recreational interest,” karaoke, on his legislative info page. That sparked a number of responses on social media last week. TCPalm reporter […]

Tag: Joe Gruters
According to reviews, F1: The Movie is living up to the hype. Image via AppleTV+/Associated Press.

Joe Gruters’ opponent faces big fee for late finance report

Tommy Gregory releases first ad for HD 73 campaign

Melissa Howard earns backing of Carlos Lopez-Cantera

Bill Furst endorses Tommy Gregory for HD 73

Melissa Howard holding HD 73 fundraiser June 13

Connie Mack endorses Tommy Gregory for HD 73

Joe Gruters kicking off SD 23 campaign next week

Tommy Gregory endorsed by former Manatee Sheriff

Vanessa Baugh endorses Melissa Howard for HD 73

Lawmakers’ hobbies amuse and confuse on social media