Carlos Guillermo Smith is a Democratic member of the Florida Senate representing District 17, which covers much of Orange County east of I-4. He is Florida's first openly gay Latino state senator, elected unopposed in 2024 after serving three terms in the Florida House of Representatives from 2016 to 2022. A prominent civil rights leader and lobbyist, Smith is known for advocating LGBTQ+ rights, gun violence prevention, environmental protection, housing affordability, and public education funding. Notable achievements include chairing the Florida Legislative Progressive Caucus , securing millions in state funding for veterans, first responders, and Pulse nightclub tragedy victims, and receiving awards such as Florida Democrat of the Year and multiple recognitions from Equality Florida and the Florida Education Association.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Alumnus of the University of Central Florida; graduated from Spanish River High School in Boca Raton.
• Early Career: Store Manager at Men’s Wearhouse and Tux and After Hours Formalwear .
• Political Staff Roles: Legislative aide to Rep. Scott Randolph ; policy chief and communications director for Rep. Joe Saunders .
• Party Leadership: Chair of Orange County Democratic Executive Committee .
• Legislative Service: Florida House , where he formed the Legislative Progressive Caucus; Florida Senate , serving as Vice Chair of Criminal Justice and on committees including Appropriations, Commerce and Tourism, and Environment and Natural Resources.
• Current Affiliations: Senior Advisor at Equality Florida ; Board of Directors, Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra .