News
Commissioner Wilton Simpson Announces Preservation of Three Florida Family Farms Through the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program
Florida Department of Agriculture | February 12, 2024
Today, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced the preservation of three family farms in the Florida Wildlife Corridor through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. The K-Rocker Ranch, a 707-acre ranch in Polk County, the Los Niños Farm, a 998-acre timber and cattle operation in Putnam County, and the Kuder Ranch, a 525-acre cattle ranch in Polk County, are being preserved through rural land protection easements for $3,200,000, $1,798,000, and $3,900,000, respectively.
Florida preserves more than 13,000 acres of agriculture land under protection program
Florida’s Voice | September 18, 2023
Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson announced Monday the preservation of over 13,000 acres of ranchland through the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program.
“Today’s partnerships with Buck Island Ranch and Adams Ranch protect over 13,000 acres of agriculturally productive, economically significant, and environmentally rich Florida ranchlands,” Simpson said.
Latest fuel-theft arrest signals austerity from Wilton Simpson’s Office
Florida Politics | September 14, 2023
Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson hasn’t hesitated in enforcing a new criminal penalty targeting gas theft.
The Republican Cabinet member highlighted the latest arrest under the new law in a press release. The arrest marks the latest installment of what’s becoming a heavy pattern of enforcement of a new law that made fuel theft and possession of related apparatuses a third-degree felony in the Sunshine State.
Florida agriculture commissioner outlines protections for Florida farmers
Florida Fruite & Vegetable Association | September 12, 2023
The Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association’s (FFVA) 79th Annual Convention kicked off with a keynote presentation by Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson on the many legislative achievements that have been made since he took office, aimed at protecting one of Florida’s largest economic drivers – agriculture.
Health officials see increase in kids hospitalized after eating THC gummies mistaken for candy
FOX 13 Tampa Bay News | August 16, 2023
Doctors at Tampa General Hospital and state officials are sending out a warning to parents: Make sure your kids don’t think that THC gummies are just another bag of candy. Poison Control Centers are seeing a huge increase in the number of kids eating gummies and winding up in the hospital.
Florida’s Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson hosted a roundtable Wednesday. Pictures were shown of confiscated THC gummy products that are made to look like popular brands of candy, including Sour Patches that are being labeled as “Stoner Patches.”
New health warnings on state gas pump inspection seals
Florida Today | August 11, 2023
Florida Agricultural Commissioner Wilton Simpson was in Titusville Friday morning at the BP gas station on US 1 with Sheriff Wayne Ivey and Southeast Petro President Summit Shah. The press conference was to announce new state agricultural inspection seals on gas pumps with a safety warning “Never leave children or pets in a hot car”. They put the first new sticker on a gas pump at the station.
Pasco board honors Wilton Simpson for his leadership, contributions
The Laker / Lutz News | June 13, 2023
If you’ve lived in Pasco County for a while, chances are you’ve heard Wilton Simpson’s name. He’s the guy who grew up In Trilby, played football at Pasco High and went on to become president of the Florida Senate and is now Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture. The Pasco County Commission recently cast a spotlight on Simpson, to thank him for his continuing contributions to improve the quality of life both in Pasco County and around the state.
Florida Cabinet approves over 35,000 acres of conservation lands
WMNF | May 23, 2023
The Florida Wildlife Corridor will continue to grow by thousands of acres, following approval by the Florida Cabinet on Tuesday. The newly-approved conservation lands in nine Florida counties will allow conservation and agriculture projects to coexist.
Soaring Eagle recognition
Citrus County Chronicle | May 20, 2023
The Withlacoochee District of the Boy Scouts of America recently organized a remarkable dinner to honor the exceptional achievements of two outstanding Scouts. The event also served as a platform to acknowledge the extraordinary contributions of Honorable Mark J. Yerman, a retired Citrus County judge, and Wilton Simpson, Florida State Commissioner of Agriculture, who were both bestowed with the prestigious Soaring Eagle Award for their unwavering support to our community and youth.
Commissioner Simpson Celebrates Legislative Session Delivering for Florida Ag
Specialty Crop Industry | May 10, 2023
“From supporting farmers by taking regulatory weights off their backs, to protecting consumers at the fuel pump, to preserving and protecting our lands for future generations, the 2023 Legislative Session included huge victories for Florida agriculture, its related industries and consumers. I want to congratulate the lawmakers who worked hard on behalf of the people of Florida and for demonstrating their support to Florida’s farmers, consumers, and those who work each day to protect them,” Simpson said.
Legislation to fine credit card companies for tracking gun purchases heads to DeSantis’ desk
Florida’s Voice | May 2, 2023
Legislation that would fine credit card companies for tracking gun and ammunition purchases is heading to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ desk after final passage. The bill, SB 214, comes as the International Organization for Standardization previously declared it would develop a new merchant category code with the express purpose of distinguishing the sale of firearms and ammunition
Wilton Simpson: When bad actors threaten, farmers deliver
Florida Politics | February 21, 2023
While thinking about doomsday national security scenarios, shortages of things like oil and gas are top of mind. But Wilton Simpson, Commissioner of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, told members of The Economic Club of Florida they shouldn’t discount the importance of farmers.
“Think of it like going to the grocery store for a week with no groceries there, then it becomes a national security issue in a hurry,” Simpson told the group. “When you consider what agriculture really does for us and what we need from it, it has to be elevated to that level.”
Moffitt Cancer Center breaks ground on new Pasco County campus, the largest expansion in history
The Business Journals | January 20, 2023
President and CEO Dr. Patrick Hwu reflected on what it took to get to this point, and what it will take to transform a rural plot of land into a leading research and care facility.
Moffitt Cancer Center breaks ground on massive Pasco County campus
News Channel 8 | January 20, 2023
The 775-acre campus is named after Agricultural Commissioner and former Florida Senate President Wilton Simpson. In comparison, Moffitt’s original Magnolia campus is only 25 acres. Moffitt says the campus will be more like a medical city — in fact, bigger than the city of Tampa itself.
Moffitt Cancer Center groundbreaking honors Commissioner Wilton Simpson
Florida’s Voice | January 20, 2023
The Moffitt Cancer Center’s groundbreakingfor a new campus honored Agricultural Commissioner and former Florida Senate President Wilton Simpson Friday.
WATCH: Brevard Sheriff Wayne Ivey, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson Hold Press Conference to Discuss Bill to Protect 2nd Amendment Rights from Banks
Space Coast Daily | January 10, 2023
Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, State Senator Danny Burgess and State Rep. John Snyder held a press conference on Tuesday to discuss a bill that would protect the 2nd Amendment Rights from banks who target gun purchases of law-abiding citizens.
Florida bill would stop credit card companies from labeling gun purchases
WESH | January 10, 2023
Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson was in Brevard County Tuesday morning, launching what he calls the “Freedom to Buy Act.” It’s geared to protect the rights of those who purchase guns.
Florida’s new agriculture commissioner proposes ban on Merchant Category Codes for gun, ammo purchases
FOX 13 | January 10, 2023
Now, Florida’s new agriculture commissioner is taking aim at a new effort to track gun purchases by the financial industry. Simspon said codes that banks put on gun purchases should be banned. Despite advocates saying it’s about tracking suspicious purchases, he said the codes could be misused.
New legislation would shield Florida gun and ammo purchase data
WFTV | January 10, 2023
Newly proposed legislation would protect data from Florida gun and ammo purchases from being collected by credit card companies. Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson, State Senator Danny Burgess, and State Representative John Snyder announced the proposed legislation at a press conference in Titusville Tuesday
New bill seeks data protection after gun and ammo sales
News 13 | January 10, 2023
Florida may soon fine some financial institutions that identify gun store purchases under a pending proposal ahead of the upcoming legislative session. The proposal — known as the “Florida Arms and Ammo Act” — seeks to thwart the emerging corporate practice of identifying and potentially flagging an individual’s financial data after a purchase at a gun retailer.
Wilton Simpson rolls out legislation to protect Floridians’ firearm, ammunition purchasing data
The Capitolist | January 10, 2023
Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson is championing new legislation that would safeguard Floridians’ financial data when purchasing firearms and ammunition. Speaking at a press conference in Titusville on Tuesday, Simpson, along with Senator Danny Burgess, and Representative John Snyder, rolled out a measure that would prohibit the collection of Floridians’ financial data from firearm and ammunition purchases.
Wilton Simpson Proposes Fines on Credit Card Companies Tracking Florida Gun Purchases
Florida’s Voice | January 10, 2023
Newly elected Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson is proposing a new plan, “The Florida Arms and Ammo Act,” that will fine credit card companies if they track gun purchases in Florida. Simpson told Florida’s Voice this is a “backdoor way of trying to intimidate gun owners.”
Senate President Visits Madison
Green Publishing | September 7, 2022
On Wednesday, Aug. 24, Florida Senate President Wilton Simpson made a trip to Madison. While in town, he met with students at Madison Creative Arts Academy (MCAA), at their new campus on Rocky Ford Road. Sen. Simpson also spoke at the regular meeting of the Madison Rotary Club at noon and took the time to visit other places in and around Madison.
Tampa Bay Police Chiefs back Wilton Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner
Florida Politics | September 6, 2022
Tampa Bay’s Police Chiefs will back up Republican Wilton Simpson’s bid for Agriculture Commissioner. Dade City Police Chief James Walters, president of the Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Association, wrote in a letter to Simpson’s campaign that the group supported his candidacy. Simpson’s record as Senate President played a role in the decision.
Labor Day Hope: A union finds an ally in Wilton Simpson
Tallahassee Democrat | September 5, 2022
At a time when our Florida politics are so often polarized, paralyzed along party lines, today we can celebrate an act of collaboration and understanding that will greatly benefit some of our most deserving workers here in Leon County and across the state.
Due largely to the leadership of Florida Senate President Wilton Simpson, the state legislature passed a budget including funds to pay nursing home workers a minimum wage of $15 per hour, effective this October 1.
Police chiefs endorse Wilton Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner
Florida Politics | August 17, 2022
“On behalf of the Florida Police Chiefs Association, we are honored to endorse Senate President Wilton Simpson for election as Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services,” FPCA president and Fellsmere Police Department Chief Keith Touchberry said. “President Simpson cares about law enforcement officers and their families, and he’s demonstrated consistent leadership on issues like expanding the opportunity for first responders to report and receive treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder.”
Pro-small business organization backs Wilton Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner
Florida Politics | August 5, 2022
One of the largest business groups in the country is now backing Republican Wilton Simpson’s bid for Agriculture Commissioner.
The National Federation of Independent Businesses is endorsing the Senate President. The group cited the Trilby lawmaker’s long history working in agriculture and his advocacy in the Legislature.
Florida Realtors back Wilton Simpson for Ag Commissioner, makes legislative Primary endorsements
Florida Politics | July 14, 2022
“Florida continues to be an economic beacon of success for the nation, largely due to the perseverance and growth of its real estate industry.”
Florida Realtors, a powerhouse trade group not shy in doling out political donations, released its slate of legislative endorsements in the primary Thursday, and announced it is supporting Senate President Wilton Simpson in his bid for Agriculture Commissioner.
CF Wilton Simpson Citrus County debut
Citrus County Chronicle | July 7, 2022
It’s official: the board of trustees of the College of Central Florida on Wednesday approved renaming its Citrus County campus in honor of Sen. Wilton Simpson. From hereon, it will be called the CF Wilton Simpson Citrus Campus.
“I am incredibly proud of the work we have done to ensure world-class education opportunities here at home and across the state,” Simpson told the Chronicle. “It is humbling to receive such an honor and a reminder of the responsibility we all have to keep pushing for our students and our community.”
“Good enough isn’t enough for Wilton:” Richard Corcoran backs Wilton Simpson for Agriculture
Florida Politics | July 7, 2022
‘Bureaucratic red tape, complacency and out-of-touch thinking can stop progress in its tracks, but not on Wilton’s watch.’
Senate President Wilton Simpson continued collecting endorsements for his Agriculture Commissioner bid Thursday, when former Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran lent his campaign an emphatic nod.
Senate President Simpson presented the Bar’s 2022 Legislative Award
The Florida Bar | June 28, 2022
Chief Justice Charles Canady presents Senate President Wilton Simpson, R-Trilby, with The Florida Bar Legislative Award at the 2022 Annual Convention in Orlando.
“In recognition of all of his service to the people of Florida, and his support for the judicial branch of Florida, it’s my honor to present him with this award today,” Canady said.
Associated Industries of Florida names six lawmakers for Champions of Business award
The Capitolist | June 28, 2022
Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) released its 2022 Champions for Business award recipients, awarding six Florida lawmakers the honor for their efforts to advance key legislation for their beliefs in the success of Florida’s business community.
The six winners –Sen. Wilton Simpson, Sen. Kathleen Passidomo, Sen. Ben Albritton, Sen. Jim Boyd, Rep. Jay Trumbull, and Rep. Andrew Learned— all advanced meaningful legislation during the past Legislative Special Session. The recognized actions include Albritton’s efforts to provide additional accountability for environmental spending in a way that ensures all legal users have access to water resources while providing significant environmental enhancements, Boyd and Trumbell’s work to provide solutions to Florida’s property insurance crisis, and Learned’s advocation of consumer data privacy legislation.
Technical college named for Simpson
Sun Coast News | June 22, 2022
The 22-year-old has been working toward computer certifications and has a job in local education as a technology support specialist, and thanks to the local technical education efforts in Hernando County, a path to a good future and more training.
“They’ve been great. They’ve provided me resources, labs with the program, the price,” he said. “Everything was extraordinary.”
He may not benefit directly, but state Sen. Wilton Simpson is hoping that many young people like Coker in Hernando County will find their future at the technical college now named for the Senate President, who is running for agriculture commissioner.
Florida firefighters endorse Wilton Simpson
Florida Politics | June 22, 2022
The leading firefighter union in Florida endorsed Republican Wilton Simpson’s campaign for Agriculture Commissioner.
“On behalf of the more than 26,000 Florida Professional Firefighters and Paramedics, I am proud to announce our membership’s endorsement of Wilton Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner,” said Wayne “Bernie” Bernoska, president of the Florida Professional Firefighters (FPF).
Florida Professional Firefighters Endorse Wilton Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner
Florida’s Voice | June 21, 2022
TALLAHASSEE (FLV) – Florida Professional Firefighters endorsed Wilton Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner Tuesday.
Florida Professional Firefighters President Wayne “Bernie” Bernoska endorsed Simpson on behalf of the more than 26,000 professional firefighters and paramedics.
“As Senate President, he showed he was willing to step up and deliver needed resources and pay raises for Florida’s state firefighters and we know his leadership will continue when he is elected to lead the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services,” Bernoska said.
Biden’s ‘economic ignorance’ will bring more food supply chain shortages: Florida Senate President
FOX Business | June 1, 2022
Wilton Simpson Rises as ‘Conservative Leader’ After Latest Rounds of Legislation and GOP Electoral Victories
Florida’s Voice | June 1, 2022
As Senate President Wilton Simpson, a rising conservative fighter in the Florida Republican Party, runs for Agriculture Commissioner, supporters are pointing out his role in the Sunshine State’s conservative winning streak.
Grover Norquist Endorses Simpson for Florida Agriculture Commissioner
Americans for Tax Reform | May 19, 2022
“I endorse Wilton Simpson as the best choice for Commissioner of Agriculture. Floridians can expect more good, conservative leadership in the future. Simpson will protect their Second Amendment rights, and he has signed the Taxpayer Protection Pledge publicly committing to keep fighting for taxpayers.”
Governor DeSantis signs anti-CRT legislation putting an end to corporate and educational indoctrination in Florida
Gov. Ron DeSantis | April 22, 2022
Jen Psaki ‘mischaracterizing’ Florida’s parental rights bill, says State Senate president
FOX News | April 20, 2022
Ananth Prasad: Legislature’s investments in infrastructure benefit all Floridians
Florida Politics | April 8, 2022
As President Wilton Simpson and Speaker Chris Sprowls put a bow on their term as legislative leaders, I thank them for their exceptional and principled leadership as they were inheriting an uncertain future, at the onset of the pandemic, and are leaving us with the state’s future as bright as one can imagine.
Pam Bondi endorses Wilton Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner
Florida Politics | April 6, 2022
“Wilton Simpson is a conservative warrior with a proven track record of supporting our brave law enforcement officers, protecting Florida’s families and defending our Second Amendment rights,” Bondi said. “Here in Florida and across the country, people are desperate for leaders who will fight to protect our shared conservative values. I am proud to endorse Wilton because I know he will continue to stand with hardworking Floridians.”
Michael Waltz latest backer of Wilton Simpson’s bid for Agriculture Commissioner
Florida Politics | April 4, 2022
“Now more than ever, Floridians need an Agriculture Commissioner who fully understands how our food supply chain works to provide safe and abundant food to the American people,” Waltz said. “At the height of the pandemic, Florida farmers like Wilton Simpson worked overtime to fill the gaps created by the crisis and ensure grocery store shelves were stocked.”
Ashley Moody, Jimmy Patronis back Wilton Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner
Florida Politics | March 30, 2022
“As a successful businessman, Wilton Simpson knows that public safety is the foundation of a thriving economy,” Moody said. “Throughout his time in the Senate, Wilton has always helped give our men and women in law enforcement the resources and tools they need to keep our state safe. We need leaders who wholeheartedly believe in the rule of law on the Florida Cabinet and I am proud to endorse him to be our next Agriculture Commissioner.”
Florida Chamber endorses Wilton Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner
Florida Politics | March 28, 2022
“The Florida Chamber of Commerce endorses Wilton Simpson as Florida’s next Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services. As our recent Most Valuable Legislator, Wilton Simpson has taken the lessons of being a local business owner and applied them to improving the business climate for free enterprise in Florida,” said Florida Chamber President and CEO Mark Wilson.
NRA endorses Wilton Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner
Florida Politics | March 23, 2022
“A lot of people talk about defending the Second Amendment, but Wilton Simpson has actually defended our right to bear arms,” said Marion Hammer, NRA past president and Unified Sportsmen of Florida executive director.
Florida Forestry Association endorses Wilton Simpson for Ag Commissioner
Florida Politics | March 22, 2022
“Wilton Simpson has a proven track record of strong leadership grounded in common sense,” said Alan Shelby, the association’s executive vice president. “By combining sound policies with political acumen, he clearly presents Florida’s best choice for growing our economy while protecting our environment.”
59 Sheriffs endorse Wilton Simpson for State Commissioner of Agriculture
Florida Politics | March 21, 2022
“The women and men in law enforcement start each shift with a mission: to work side by side with members of their community to keep it safe and to make it home to their families,” Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco said. “Wilton Simpson has firmly stood with law enforcement in this mission and understands that protecting our communities and our future will allow Florida to continue to prosper.”
Florida Sheriffs notch victories in officer recruitment, juvenile justice
Florida Politics | March 15, 2022
Statement from the Florida Sheriffs Association’s Legislative Chair, Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri
“Thanks to the leadership of Speaker Chris Sprowls and President Wilton Simpson, the legislation passed by both the House and Senate during the annual Legislative Session ensures that Florida stands as the most law enforcement friendly state and provides sheriffs with additional resources to make neighborhoods even safer.”
The James Madison Institute Applauds The Florida Legislature On Session Accomplishments
The James Madison Institute | March 14, 2022
Statement from The James Madison Institute Vice President of Policy, Sal Nuzzo:
“Florida has once again illustrated that policymaking and governing from conservative principles is possible. Thank you to Speaker Sprowls and President Simpson for shepherding the Sunshine State through a tumultuous time for the country.”
Florida 2022 Legislative Session Adjourns Disappointing Anti-Gun Proponents
NRA-ILA | March 14, 2022
The NRA would like to thank Senate President Wilton Simpson, Speaker of the House Chris Sprowls, and Representative Chuck Brannan for their efforts to protect the Second Amendment in Florida.
Florida Superintendents Applaud Increased K-12 Funding
Florida Association of District School Superintendents | March 14, 2022
Statement from FADSS Chief Executive Officer and former Florida Senator Bill Montford:
“Whether it is job creation or quality of life; it all hinges on a good, sound, public education system and sufficient funding is crucial to that success,” states FADSS Chief Executive Officer and former Florida Senator Bill Montford. “The budget approved during the 2022 Legislative Session clearly demonstrates our states commitment to ensuring that every student has equal opportunities to a high-quality education.”
Florida to spend more than $700 million on Pasco Moffitt cancer complex
Tampa Bay Times | March 12, 2022
TALLAHASSEE — The Florida Legislature is poised to approve more than $706 million for a new H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute campus in Pasco County. The funding is a major step for the cancer research nonprofit’s plan to build out a 775-acre parcel of land east of the Suncoast Parkway and south of State Road 52.
Wilton Simpson named A Champion for Florida’s Seniors
Floridians for Senior Care | March 10, 2022
“Thank you Senate President Wilton Simpson for always standing up for Florida’s seniors! Because of Senate President Simpson, Florida is taking a more comprehensive and holistic approach to nursing home care by allowing residents to have more personalized care that better serves their needs like physical rehabilitation, mental health services, and other treatments that aren’t as common.”
Florida lawmakers approve strictest abortion ban in state’s history
Politico | March 3, 2022
Florida’s Republican-controlled Senate on Thursday night approved the strictest abortion ban in the state’s history, ending a monthslong fight over reproductive rights that pitted GOP lawmakers against Democrats and activists who fought against the measure but were powerless to stop it.
In Focus: A look at leadership agendas for the current Florida Legislative Session
News 13 | Feb. 6, 2022
On Tuesday Jan. 11, Florida lawmakers convened to begin their annual 60-day session in Tallahassee. This is the second year of leadership for Senate President Wilton Simpson and House Speaker Chris Sprowls.
Pro-Life Bills Introduced Would Grant the Most Robust Protection for Unborn in Florida’s History
Florida Family Policy Council | Jan. 4, 2022
(Tallahassee, FL) This morning, Senator Kelli Stargel and Representative Erin Grall filed bills HB 5 and SB 146 on “Reducing Fetal and Infant Mortality.” The bills create enhanced measures to defend the lives of unborn children. If these bills pass, the new law would be the strongest protection for unborn children in Florida’s history to date.
Governor DeSantis, Legislative Leaders Support Teachers, Families
Foundation for Florida’s Future | Jan. 11, 2022
Statement from Patricia Levesque, Executive Director of the Foundation for Florida’s Future, on education priorities shared on the opening day of this year’s Legislative session:
“Governor DeSantis continues to build upon policies that produce results and directly improve the lives Florida’s families, students and educators. His focus on increasing overall school funding and teacher pay will benefit students now and in the future. And his commitment to providing valuable workforce training for Floridians will lead to more high-paying opportunities in in-demand fields.
Not Messin’ Around
Influence Magazine | Winter 2022
The coming Session will be the last for Senate President Wilton Simpson, closing out a decade in his first elected office. The Pasco County Republican was an oddly intuitive fit in leadership, known for quick decision making and polite, almost courtly treatment of legislative colleagues.
Wilton Simpson earns AIF endorsement for Ag. Commissioner bid
Florida Politics | Jan. 5, 2022
“Wilton Simpson understands that the more affordable Florida is for our businesses, the stronger our economy will be for hardworking families. By keeping taxes low, getting rid of job-killing regulations and exercising fiscal responsibility, Wilton has protected the path to prosperity for millions of Floridians. We are confident that he will continue to do so as Florida’s next Agriculture Commissioner.” – AIF President and CEO Brewster Bevis.
Florida Politics’ 2021 Politician of the Year
Florida Politics | Dec. 29, 2021
Normally here, we play a weekly game of winners and losers of the week in Florida politics, but we’ll keep it positive in the Christmas spirit. This one time, we’ll only declare a winner of the year because that’s just the kind of positive folks we are here.
Florida builders back Wilton Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner
Florida Politics | Dec. 16, 2021
Associated Builders and Contractors of Florida endorsed Senate President Wilton Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner on Thursday.
“We have known Senator Simpson throughout his entire legislative career and are thrilled to announce our endorsement of him in his race for Commissioner of Agriculture,” said Gary Griffin, ABCFL’s Board Chair and the CEO of B&I Contractors.
Florida law enforcement union endorses Wilton Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner
Florida Politics | Nov. 12, 2021
The Florida Police Benevolent Association endorsed Senate President Wilton Simpson for Agriculture Commissioner, the group announced Friday.
“As our Senate President, you insist that the men and women of law enforcement and corrections be treated with the utmost respect,” reads a letter to Simpson from FPBA President John “Kaz“ Kazanjian. “Your vision as Senate President has steered our law enforcement and correctional officer communities onto a road into the 21st century. Your support for creating a sustainable quality of life for Florida’s finest will leave a lasting legacy for decades to come.
“We have your back and we know you have ours.”
Advocating for Florida’s Citrus Growers
Hernando Sun | Sept. 6, 2021
Florida State President Sen. Wilton Simpson (R-Trilby) has officially announced that he will seek to become the state’s next commissioner of Agriculture. The cabinet post is being vacated by Nikki Fried who announced in June that she will challenge Gov Ron DeSantis to become Florida’s next Governor.
After Trump endorsement, Wilton Simpson files to run for Florida Agriculture Commissioner
Tampa Bay Times | Sept. 3, 2021
Florida Senate President Wilton Simpson filed to run to become the state’s next Agriculture Commissioner on Friday, months after being endorsed by President Donald Trump. Simpson, an egg farmer and business owner from Trilby, has long been rumored to be eyeing the job, one of the top four elected officers in state government. He instantly becomes the top Republican for the seat currently held by Democrat Nikki Fried, who is looking to challenge Gov. Ron DeSantis next year.
Guest opinion: Florida job creators receiving tax refund and here is why
News-Press | July 20, 2021
It is not often the government sends a tax refund to Florida businesses, but that is exactly what happened on June 28, 2021. I opened my mail to discover a reimbursement check from the Florida Department of Financial Services signed by Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis. I had remitted my tax before the April 30 deadline, coincidentally, the same day the 2021 regular legislative session ended. Like many businesses, I paid more in unemployment taxes this year, due to the pandemic. So, what was the purpose of this refund? The refund check was for an over payment of a reemployment tax, also known as an unemployment tax.
Despite Golden State Officials’ Effort To Demonize Red States, Californians Are Moving To Them In Droves
Forbes | June 30, 2021
“I am grateful to Governor DeSantis for signing this legislation,” said Florida Senate President Wilton Simpson (R). “Moving forward, by reducing the business rent tax, we will continue to help existing businesses, encourage more entrepreneurs, and have an even better recruiting portfolio for businesses we want to lure away from highly regulated, high-tax states.”
Country strong: Farmer turned Senate President heartily earns Most Valuable Legislator Award
Citrus County Chronicle | June 27, 2021
The Florida Chamber recognized Senate President Wilton Simpson on Thursday, June 24, with the Most Valuable Legislator Award. The Citrus County Chamber of Commerce, and our 900-plus member businesses, absolutely agree that Simpson is the best senator in Tallahassee.
Norquist: Florida Taxpayers Win Big with Updated Online Sales Tax Bill
Americans for tax reform | March 29, 2021
“House Speaker Sprowls and Senate President Simpson have really come through for taxpayers and businesses. Even as Washington attempts to unconstitutionally meddle with the ability of states to cut taxes, their agreement shows why Florida keeps leading as the destination for families and businesses.”- Grover Norquist, Americans for Tax Reform
Senate President Wilton Simpson
Florida Truck News Magazine | Feb. 1, 2021
No place was better for Senate President Wilton Simpson’s photoshoot for Florida Truck News than on a farm.
His warm eyes and welcoming smile would make everyone from age 3 to 93 imagine themselves sitting on a front portch with him: a glass of sweet tea, the sun setting over a beautiful expanse of Florida farmland and a good conversation. I immeadiately sensed a feeling of calm. A successful agricultural businessman and entreprenuer, Simpson is just as comfortable (and formidable) when walking the halls of the state Capitol or presiding over the Florida Senate.
Meet State Senator Wilton Simpson
Spectrum Local News | Oct. 24, 2019
Florida State Senator Wilton Simpson (R-10) says the most gratifying part of his work is helping his constituents. In his Know Your Electeds Interview, Simpson talks about the recent opening of the Pace Center for Girls. He also hopes to help get more kids adopted through Florida’s foster care system.
October’s Farm to School Egg Event at Richey Elementary
Pasco County Schools | November 5, 2014 |
October’s Farm to School Month ended with an egg-citing bang! On October 29th Richey Elementary was selected to host a Farm to School Egg Event involving many community partners! Senator Wilton Simpson joined the celebration by highlighting his own love for eggs. Senator Simpson owns and operates Simpson Farms Inc., which is home to over one million chickens supplying eggs to many Florida families. Senator Simpson talked to almost 300 K-2 elementary students about his egg farm and how eggs can be included in a healthy diet. Senator Simpson educated the students on how the egg gets from the farm to the table, and how important farms are to Florida Agriculture and its economy. Did you know one egg only has 78 calories and over 6 grams of protein? Eggs are a protein packed way to start your day!
Wilton Simpson: Washington, D.C., could learn a lot from Florida
Florida Politics | October 16, 2013
“I’m from the government and I’m here to help,” is sadly not a phrase that inspires confidence. In fact, since the people of Florida’s 18th state Senate district elected me to serve them, I’ve jokingly used Ronald Reagan’s line at town halls and small business tours to get people smiling.
I’d like to think they’re smiling because they know me well enough to understand that as a husband, father, farmer and business owner, I’ve had my share of frustrations with governmental agencies, and so my goal really is to help simplify things.
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