Ashley Viola Gantt

Ashley Viola Gantt is a Democratic member of the Florida House of Representatives representing District 109 in Miami-Dade County. Born April 14, 1985, she has dedicated her career to public service, transitioning from the classroom to the courtroom.

Before entering electoral politics, Gantt worked as a public school teacher and served as a former Broward County Public Defender. She is a law firm owner and maintains her professional practice as an attorney.

Education

Gantt earned a B.A. in English from the University of Florida in 2007. After her undergraduate studies, she joined the Teach for America Mississippi Delta Corps for two years before teaching middle school and high school for six years at Miami-Dade County Public Schools. She completed her J.D. at Shepard Broad College of Law in 2016, combining her teaching experience with legal education.

Political Experience

Gantt was first elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2022, winning the Democratic primary for District 109 on August 23, 2022, with support from Service Employees International Union and Ruth's List Florida. She ran unopposed in the general election after criticizing the incumbent representative's votes on abortion ban legislation and education policy matters.

Currently serving her district, Gantt holds several committee positions, including serving as the Democratic Ranking Member of the PreK-12 Budget Subcommittee, membership on the State Affairs Committee, and participation in the Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee. Her term extends through 2030, reflecting her continued commitment to representing Miami-Dade County residents in the state legislature.