Jay Collins is a Republican politician, Army veteran, and former Florida State Senator for District 14 . He served in the Senate from November 2022 until resigning on August 12, 2025, to become Florida's 21st Lieutenant Governor. Notable achievements include sponsoring over 40 pieces of legislation, securing $120 million for Tampa Bay region improvements, first responders, veterans, and education; chairing the Agriculture Committee to advance food security; and receiving awards such as Senator of the Year from multiple groups , Defender of Freedom from the NRA , and Chronic Complex Champion from BayCare Health System . Key positions include support for the Heartbeat Protection Act , opposition to Florida Amendment 4, and sponsorship of bills on telepharmacy, child labor law changes, human trafficking enhancements, child hearsay exceptions, and Cyber Florida cybersecurity.

Education and Political Experience

• Military and Early Career: Army veteran with affiliations including NRA, American Legion, Military Order of the Purple Heart, VFW, and Special Forces Association. Post-military, worked with Operation BBQ Relief distributing meals after disasters and supporting veterans.
• Political Entry: Ran unsuccessfully for U.S. Congress in Florida's 14th district ; elected to Florida Senate District 14 in 2022, defeating Democrat Janet Cruz with Gov. Ron DeSantis endorsement; unopposed in Republican primary.
• *Senate Service *: Committee roles including Transportation and Joint Legislative Auditing Committee ; passed legislation on agriculture revitalization, law enforcement, veterans, education, business, and cybersecurity.
• Current Role: Appointed Lieutenant Governor in August 2025; running in gubernatorial race as of recent reports.