Bradenton Republican Bill Galvano will serve as Senate President in 2019, marking only the second time a lawmaker from the region has held the Florida Senate’s top post (John McKay was Senate President in 2001-2002).
Galvano stood up as a leader after the Frank Artiles imbroglio blew up in April, making sure that the disgraced Hialeah republican went to Sen. Audrey Gibson’s office to show contrition for his offensive remarks. Galvano also reportedly was involved in Artiles subsequent resignation.
Galvano continues his ascension in the annual poll. Last year he ranked fifth.
Joe Henderson’s Take
“He’s going to be Senate president in 2019 and, as befitting someone about to assume that important role, he helped lead the charge that forced Frank Artiles to not only apologize, but also to get the hell out of Tallahassee. That won him major points in my book because the Legislature should have zero tolerance for the kind of garbage Artiles spread.”
For a complete explanation of how this list was created and who made up the panel that amassed it, please read here.
