Senator Barbara Sharief

Barbara Sharief is a Democratic state senator representing District 35 in Florida, which includes parts of Broward County. She assumed office on November 5, 2024, and her current term extends through 2032.

Barbara Sharief was born on November 7, 1971, in Miami Beach, Florida. She is a healthcare professional, entrepreneur, and community advocate who transitioned into politics after speaking up at local meetings. She is affiliated with the Islamic faith and has two children.

As an entrepreneur, Sharief founded South Florida Pediatric Homecare, Inc. in 2001, which she led as CEO until 2021 and grew to employ 500 people in the South Florida region. She currently owns Dr. Barbara Sharief DNP Inc., a family practice.

Education

Sharief holds advanced credentials in nursing and healthcare:

• Jackson Memorial Hospital School of Nursing
• Miami-Dade Community College, Associate of Science in Nursing
• Florida International University, Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Florida International University, Master of Science in Nursing APRN
• Wilkes University, Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner Certification

Political Experience

Local Government:
- Miramar City Commissioner
- Miramar Vice Mayor
- Broward County Commissioner
- Broward County Vice Mayor
- Broward County Mayor —made history as the county's first African-American female mayor
- President of the Florida Association of Counties

State Senate:
Currently serves on multiple committees including Banking and Insurance , Appropriations, Children, Families and Elder Affairs, Community Affairs, and Military and Veterans Affairs, Space, and Domestic Security.

Sharief is recognized as a fierce advocate for Medicaid expansion and lowering prescription drug costs.