Floria Governor DeSantis designates Tampa Senator Jay Collins as Lieutenant Governor, according to the state Republican party.
Tampa Senator Jay Collins Appointed as Florida's New Lieutenant Governor
Tampa Senator Jay Collins, a former Green Beret and decorated veteran, has been appointed as the state's new Lieutenant Governor by Governor Ron DeSantis. The Republican Party of Florida confirmed the appointment on Tuesday morning.
Collins, who earned the Purple Heart for his service in combat, retired from the military and founded a nonprofit organization supporting veterans, first responders, and Floridians in need. He was elected to the Florida Senate in 2022, defeating incumbent Democrat Janet Cruz in a double-digit win.
In the Florida Senate, Collins has been a strong and reliable advocate for supporting families, preserving community values, and protecting individual freedoms. His appointment as Lieutenant Governor could potentially set up a challenge against Byron Donalds, a rising star within the GOP and a potential contender for a gubernatorial campaign, with the support of former President Donald Trump.
Donalds, a Republican U.S. Representative for Florida’s 19th congressional district, is known for his conservative views, being pro-life, and as a gun-owner. He announced his candidacy for governor of Florida in 2026, positioning himself as a potential challenger to Collins. If he wins, Donalds would make history as the first elected Black Republican governor in U.S. history.
Meanwhile, Chairman Evan Power congratulated Collins on his appointment, praising his dedication to Florida and its people. The position of Lieutenant Governor in Florida has been left vacant following Jeannette Nuñez's appointment as President of Florida International University in February.
In other news, John MacLauchlan, a digital content producer for our Miami, has been part of the team since February 2007. MacLauchlan graduated from Florida State University with a Communications degree.
Byron Donalds, born on October 28, 1978, in Brooklyn, New York, overcame early-life challenges including poverty before rising through the ranks of Florida politics. Before his congressional career, he was a member of the Florida House of Representatives (2016–2020).
Collins' appointment as Florida's new Lieutenant Governor could spark political tension, potentially setting up a challenge against Byron Donalds, a conservative figure known for his pro-life stance and support for gun rights, who announced his candidacy for governor in 2026. The position of this role was left vacant following Jeannette Nunñez's departure to become the President of Florida International University.
