“Jimmy Patronis, Chief Financial Officer for the Great State of Florida, has done a tremendous job as CFO, where he also serves as the State’s Fire Marshal, and as an important member of the Florida Cabinet,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. The President-elect also praised Patronis for aligning with key conservative priorities and urged him to run, declaring, “Should he decide to enter this Race, Jimmy Patronis has my Complete and Total Endorsement. RUN, JIMMY, RUN!”
As Patronis steps down from his role as CFO to potentially pursue this new opportunity, here’s a closer look at his life, career, and impact.
Roots in Florida and Family Life
Jimmy Patronis is a fourth-generation Floridian from Panama City. He grew up immersed in the family business, Capt. Anderson’s Restaurant, a well-established seafood destination in Panama City Beach. From refilling ketchup bottles as a young boy to eventually managing operations, Patronis developed a strong work ethic early in life.
He resides in Panama City with his wife Katie and their two sons, Theo (13) and Johnny (11). His connection to his hometown and commitment to family have been central themes throughout his career.
Educational and Early Public Service Foundations
Patronis pursued higher education with an associate degree in restaurant management from Gulf Coast Community College, followed by a bachelor’s degree in political science from Florida State University. During his studies, he interned with the Florida Senate and even in the United Kingdom’s House of Commons, experiences that sparked his interest in public service.In 1998, he was appointed to the Florida Elections Commission and was reappointed by Governor Jeb Bush, marking the start of his formal political journey.
Political Career and Legislative Impact
Jimmy Patronis served as a member of the Florida House of Representatives for eight years, representing Northwest Florida. During this tenure, he worked on legislation that impacted his district and beyond.
In 2017, Patronis was appointed as Florida’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) by then-Governor Rick Scott and later retained the position under Governor Ron DeSantis. As CFO, he managed the state’s finances, conducted departmental audits, and regulated the insurance industry. His additional roles as State Fire Marshal, Comptroller, and Treasurer expanded his influence across critical areas of governance.
A hallmark of his service was his advocacy for first responders. “Together, we have worked with the Florida Legislature to provide benefits for mental health and cancer for Florida’s first responders,” Patronis stated in his resignation letter. “They are always there when we need them, and in return, we showed up for them in their time of need.”
Trump Alignment and National Spotlight
Throughout his political career, Patronis demonstrated strong alignment with Trump’s policies. This was evident when he proposed the establishment of a “Freedom Fighters Fund,” which sought to allocate up to $5 million towards legal expenses for presidential candidates, including Trump. Although Governor DeSantis ultimately vetoed the proposal, it highlighted Patronis’s commitment to Trump’s agenda.
Trump’s endorsement of Patronis for Congress further underscores their shared priorities. Trump lauded him as a leader who would help “Grow our Economy, Secure our Border, Stop Migrant Crime, Strengthen our Incredible Military/Vets, Restore American Energy DOMINANCE, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment.”
Patronis’s tenure as Florida’s CFO will officially end on 31 March, as he steps down to explore new opportunities. His potential congressional campaign comes with extensive experience in public service, a strong connection to his community, and a clear alignment with Trump’s political vision.
If he runs for Florida’s 1st Congressional District seat, Patronis’s profile as a dedicated Floridian and proven leader could make him a formidable candidate. With Trump’s endorsement, he is poised to play a significant role in shaping Florida’s representation in Washington.
