DeSantis Eyes Jay Collins for Lieutenant Governor as Political Shifts Loom

Tampa, Florida, USA - Governor Ron DeSantis is currently in the hunt for a new Lieutenant Governor, a position that has been vacant since Jeanette Nuñez resigned in February to take on the presidency of Florida International University. One of the leading candidates for this key position is State Senator Jay Collins from Tampa, known for his strong military background as a Green Beret combat veteran and his commitment to conservative values. Collins has gained attention for his advocacy of gun rights, having spearheaded the permitless carry legislation in the Florida Senate in 2023. As he himself stated, „we agree on pretty much everything,“ reflecting his close alignment with Governor DeSantis and their shared political goals.

While Republicans are rallying behind Collins, some Democratic leaders are raising eyebrows over his perceived loyalty to DeSantis. House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell has voiced concerns that Collins might not provide the independent counsel that a Lieutenant Governor should. This internal political dynamic could have wider implications as the state gears up for the important elections in 2026, where Collins may very well have a stake in future leadership beyond the Lieutenant Governor’s office.

Florida’s Legislative Landscape

In addition to the Lieutenant Governor search, Florida lawmakers are actively debating significant changes that could reshape the state’s governance. One proposed plan is aimed at promoting efficiency in state government, dubbed the “Florida DOGE.” Both Governor DeSantis and various lawmakers support this initiative, despite raising questions about state employees living outside Florida and the associated travel expenses. Another prominent issue on the legislative table is the initiative to lower the minimum age for long gun purchases from 21 to 18, potentially reversing laws established following the tragic Parkland shooting. This proposed measure has gained traction in the Florida House, advancing through its first committee, and reflects the ongoing struggle between gun rights advocates and those prioritizing safety.

Currently, Florida stands as one of eight states with a minimum purchasing age of 21 for long guns. Any change would not come easily, as there has been significant opposition rooted in the memories of past tragedies, and previous attempts to amend this law have fallen short.

Upcoming Announcements

In the backdrop of these legislative changes, Governor DeSantis is expected to make announcements regarding his selections for the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Financial Officer roles. Although no formal decisions have been released yet, he hinted that they would be communicated soon, likely after July 4. As the situation evolves, Collins and Blaise Ingoglia have emerged as frontrunners for their respective positions. The urgency to fill these roles is underscored by the approaching hurricane season, with forecasts predicting above-normal activity.

Conclusion: An Eye on the Future

Governor DeSantis’s next steps could profoundly shape Florida’s political landscape, especially with the upcoming gubernatorial elections looming on the horizon. The dynamics within the Republican Party, including endorsements from prominent figures like former President Donald Trump, could play a pivotal role as Florida navigates its political future. Meanwhile, the push for gun legislation, along with calls for greater transparency in state spending, signal that Florida’s legislative sessions will be crucial in determining how the state moves forward in these contentious times. As the details unfold, Floridians will be watching closely to see who ultimately fills the Lieutenant Governor seat and how these changes impact their daily lives.

For more on these developments, check out the full reports from ABC Action News, Bay News 9, and WPTV.