SaintPetersBlog had the chance to catch up with Representative Steve Crisafulli today, just hours before he is voted by his colleagues as the Speaker Designate for 2014-16.
Crisafulli, of Merritt Island, was elected after the November election by his colleagues as speaker-in-waiting for the 2014-2016 term. Here are five questions for Rep. Crisafulli.
SPB: What was it like to selected by your colleagues as Speaker Designate in 2014-16? Did you ever envision yourself being Speaker of the House?
Crisafulli: It is both an honor and a humbling experience to have my friends and colleagues place their trust in my ability to serve as Speaker. Before a call from Senator Thad Altman (then Representative Altman) in 2008, I never even imagined running for the legislature, so, no, I did not envision this happening. Like many things in life, you can’t always prepare years in advance, but you can seize opportunities, work hard, and make a positive impact.
SPB: What is the learning curve like in a move like this; one day you are “just another member”, then next you are in line to be Speaker of the House? What are you doing to prepare yourself?
Crisafulli: Some people have years to prepare for their move to Speaker. The way events unfolded, I have had less time. But, great staff, skilled advisers, and a supportive group of colleagues surround me. These people, especially Speaker Weatherford, have helped me hit the ground running.
SPB: Name two or three past legislative leaders who may serve as role models for your term.
Crisafulli: I’ve had the privilege of serving with some great leaders. I have great respect for Speaker Weatherford and will watch him closely as he applies his commonsense style to leading the House the next two years. Speaker Dean Cannon had a lot success during his sessions, and I admire the example and quiet confidence of Speaker Larry Cretul.
SPB: How is the campaign operation coming together? Have you picked the staff to run House campaigns (if so, who?) Any battleground seats already on your radar?
Crisafulli: The House campaign operation is in great shape. We have a professional team of political staff at the party, and we are doing very well with fundraising. I am confident we will recruit outstanding new candidates and work with our incumbents to maintain, if not add to, the Republican caucus in the House. We will have the resources to compete in every seat, and we will not take any House race for granted.
SPB: ho is one of your legislative colleagues who may fly somewhat under the radar, but deserves more attention for the work they are doing?
Crisafulli: I am proud of the work of all my Republican colleagues. They may have different styles – some are out front and others are lower profile – but they all have an unrivaled commitment to their constituents and to Florida. Together we will work with Speaker Weatherford for a great session this year based on our common principles.
5B. How often do folks mispronounce your last name?
All the time, but it’s ok because I know it’s not intentional. Whether or not it’s easy to pronounce, I am very proud of my name because the generations of the Crisafulli family who’ve come before me worked very hard to earn respect as good people and caring neighbors. I hope I honor them with my work in the Florida House.
