Florida Banking February/March 2025

Left to right: Then FBA SVP Kenneth Pratt, House Speaker Danny Perez, Senate President Ben Albritton and FBA EVP Anthony DiMarco meet at the Florida Capitol.

shaped by my personal experiences. Growing up, I watched my younger brother Brian, who has a severe developmental disability, and saw my mother struggle to access the programs and services he needed. That experience inspired me to go into public service with a mission to do better for families like mine and many others across our state. I believe the state government has a role to play — not being at the center of people’s lives, but by doing things that truly matter to them. When I first ran for office, I asked myself: What’s the point of throwing someone a lifeline if we leave them drowning in the water? That question continues to drive me today, as I work to ensure we’re not just offering help, but truly pulling people in and making a difference. Q: What are some of the life-guiding principles you live by? The principles that guide me are centered on service, collaboration and respect for others. I strive to work hard, build strong relationships and honor my family — values that shape how I live every day. I try to translate those principles as an elected official by empowering others to find solutions, ensuring every voice is heard and providing the tools and support needed for success. Q: How do you see Florida’s current economic and financial outlook? I am optimistic about Florida’s economic outlook. We navigated the pandemic better than most states and continue to lead on many key metrics. However, I also recognize that the state’s budget has become bloated. We need to build a budget that values value and invests in solutions that help people. The size of

Legislative Leaders, Continued from page 9

generation citrus grower, I’m focused on supporting our Florida farm families and saving from extinction our iconic Florida citrus industry. We also know the droves of people coming to Florida for freedom and opportunity pose a serious risk to the health and supply of our state’s water. We must continue to develop and advance solutions to rid Florida’s waterways of excessive nutrients. A renewed, data-driven focus on water will give us a close look at where we actually are, instead of where we think we might be. Fresh, accurate data will drive the solutions we need for the future. Q: How would you encourage Florida bankers to engage in the legislative process? Florida bankers have a very long history of civic engagement at all levels. In my experience, whether with local bankers or in one-on-one meetings and committee hearings in Tallahassee, Florida bankers provide relevant and timely input on key issues. We appreciate your feedback and always look forward to learning the perspective of the banking community and other leaders of business and industry. Meet House Speaker Danny Perez Q: What inspired your desire to serve as House Speaker? My desire to serve as House Speaker is rooted in a personal commitment to the people of Florida and

10 — FLORIDA BANKING THE VOICE OF FLORIDA BANKING