Ed Hooper is a Republican member of the Florida Senate representing District 21, which includes parts of Pasco and Pinellas counties, such as Clearwater, Largo, and Palm Harbor. Born on August 5, 1947, in Statesville, North Carolina, he moved to Florida in 1972 and resides in Clearwater. A retired firefighter with 24-28 years of service, including time in Clearwater from 1968-1996, Hooper has focused on public safety legislation, such as sponsoring SB 184 and measures honoring firefighters. Notable achievements include serving as Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Vice Chair of Community Affairs, and leadership roles like Chair of the Pinellas County Legislative Delegation . He secured re-election in District 21 with nearly 60% of the vote and is termed out in 2028.

Education and Political Experience

Education

• Attended Saint Petersburg College , studying fire science and emergency medicine.
• Recognized as SPC’s Outstanding Alumnus in 2013 and Professional Firefighter of the Year in 1999.

Political Experience

• Florida State Senate, District 21 : Chair, Appropriations Committee; Vice Chair, Community Affairs; member of Banking and Insurance, Judiciary, Rules, and Joint Legislative Budget Commission.
• Florida House of Representatives : Served as Deputy Whip ; chaired Transportation & Economic Development Appropriations Subcommittee.
• Clearwater City Commission : Elected by defeating incumbent; served as Vice Mayor .
• Other roles: Member, Pinellas County Charter Review Commission ; Chair, Pinellas Fire & EMS Task Force ; Clearwater Community Development Board .