Joseph Ryan Gruters is a Republican politician and accountant born on June 7, 1977, in Tampa, Florida. He is married to Sydney Gruters and has three children: Spencer, Jack Ryan, and Elle. He currently serves as a member of the Florida State Senate representing District 22, which consists of Sarasota County and part of Manatee County. In addition to his state legislative role, Gruters serves as the chairman of the Republican National Committee, a position he has held since August 2025 after being endorsed by President Donald Trump.

Education

Gruters earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Florida State University and an MBA from the University of South Florida.

Political Experience

Gruters began his political career in local government, serving as Chair of the Sarasota County Planning Commission from 2004 to 2010. He also worked in political consulting and campaign management, serving as campaign manager and political director for Vern Buchanan for Congress from 2000 to 2009. He served as Florida Co-Chair for Donald Trump for President beginning in 2015.

In 2016, Gruters was elected to the Florida House of Representatives from District 73, representing Eastern Manatee County and Northeastern Sarasota County. He served in this chamber until 2018, when he was elected to the Florida Senate representing District 23. In 2022, he was re-elected to the Florida Senate and now represents District 22.

Gruters held the position of Chair of the Florida Republican Party from 2019 to 2023, having been elected to a two-year term as chairman in January 2019. During his tenure in the Florida Legislature, he has served on various committees and subcommittees related to criminal and civil justice, appropriations, and tourism and gaming control.