Meet Ryan Reiter, one of the ’30 under 30′ rising stars of Florida politics

In both public service and the private sector, Ryan Reiter has set himself apart from the pack.

“Exceptionally bright, courteous, responsible and compassionate” is how one person explained why the 29-year-old former Marine merits inclusion in this year’s “30 Under 30” crowd.

As an aide to Broward County Commissioner Chip LaMarca, he coordinated a free bus-pass program for low-income veterans.

Though he’s now director of government affairs at South Florida’s Kaufman Lynn Construction, he still volunteers, including chairing the Next Gen 4 HANDY, an organization in Broward that helps at-risk youth.

“Ryan is the real deal,” another nominator said. “If your list were 3 under 30, I would still be submitting his name.”

Here’s Reiter in his own words:

I am … 29 years old. 

I live in … Pompano Beach.

I got into politics because … of veterans issues (employment, healthcare) and a desire to continue serving in one fashion or another after my End of Active Service in the Marine Corps.  

One principle I always put above politics is … humility. There are times when you have to put the good of your community and country above selfish ambition. If you have a good strategy, you can still come out shining without looking like an obstructionist, without compromising your core principle, but you have to be willing to come to the table.  

Person or people who gave me my first shot … I received my first campaign gig working for Danielle Will DiNicola and former Broward Sheriff Al Lamberti. My friend and mentor, Commissioner Chip LaMarca, gave me my first opportunity to sink my teeth into public policy.

I’ve already worked for/on (campaign, issues, etc.) … Since returning home in December 2010, I worked on the 2012 re-election campaign for former Sheriff Lamberti. That’s where I truly got my feet wet with Broward County politics and the Young Republicans, of which I’m now the Broward chapter president and region chair assisting Palm Beach and Miami YRs. I have consulted and volunteered for a number of municipal races as well as state and national campaigns. I have worked on public policy and community relations for Commissioner LaMarca.

I then worked as the government affairs manager for the Children’s Services Council of Broward County, where I assisted in educating the public on the work and worth of the CSC during the 2014 reauthorization. The question passed with more than  75 percent of the vote and my position evolved into advocating on public policy for children and families throughout Broward County and Florida. There are far too many people in the child advocacy community to thank for their guidance, but I’m proud to have served alongside them.  

When I begin a project or first work on a campaign, I look for … the “smart people.” Micheal P. Barrett, the 17th sergeant major of the Marine Corps, used to tell me, “Surround yourself with smart people, and you’ll always succeed.” Another fitting quote from someone I admire: “If you’re a leader and you’re the smartest guy in the room, you’ve got real problems.” —Jack Welch.

I’ve been blessed to have these people as my mentors … Chip LaMarca and Circuit Judge Ari Porth. Although they sit on opposite ends of the spectrum and in different capacities, the advice and friendship I’ve received from them is priceless.

The people I most admire in politics are … the ones who get it. The people who understand the merits of good public policy and don’t sacrifice good legislation for political gain.

One lesson I’ve already learned is … you can’t make everyone happy.

If I wasn’t working in politics, I’d be working in … the Marine Corps or as a firefighter.  

In 10 years, you’ll read about me … ensuring that Florida is still the best place to live, work, and raise a family!