DeSantis appoints Jay Collins as lieutenant governor
DeSantis appoints Jay Collins as lieutenant governor, ending six-month vacancy
Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) chose Republican state Sen. Jay Collins to be the state’s next lieutenant governor, ending a six-month absence.
Former Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez left the role in February to assume the position of interim president of Florida International University.
“What I was looking for is someone that can be lieutenant governor that will help us deliver more wins for the people of Florida — and then also that is capable of serving and leading as governor, if that need were ever to arise,” DeSantis said at a press conference at the Tampa Green Beret Association.
Collins, an Army combat veteran first elected in 2022, was sworn in minutes after the press event.
“I want you to know that I’ve got my sleeves rolled up, I’ve got my running leg on, and we are ready to get things done,” Collins said.
Collins could be viewed as a DeSantis-backed candidate for governor in the state’s 2026 gubernatorial race. DeSantis has not put his weight behind President Donald Trump’s pick, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL).
“The goal is to help him finish the mission and keep Florida strong,” Collins said of DeSantis, adding, “you don’t flinch when the next mission comes up. You just say, ‘Yes, sir. Let’s go.’”
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Collins is a staunch ally of the governor, having defended DeSantis when Florida House Republicans accused his wife, Casey DeSantis, of illegally fundraising.
Casey DeSantis had been viewed as a potential successor for governor, but she has not made any moves towards a bid.
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