A path forward to meet the moment

I am humbled and energized to serve as the Senate Democratic Leader for the 2028–2030 legislative cycle. This responsibility is not about personal ambition — it is about our collective power to renew hope, expand opportunity, and deliver tangible results for every Floridian.

I have had the privilege of representing communities across Miami-Dade and Broward in the Florida Senate, where I’ve fought for quality public education, economic opportunity, and meaningful reforms that make government work for families, not special interests. I’ve also been honored as a voice for our students and educators, recognized by the Florida School Boards Association for championing our public schools.

But today’s challenges demand bold leadership — leadership rooted in principle, grounded in community, and relentless in pursuit of progress.

Our state stands at a crossroads.

Too many families are struggling under the weight of rising costs while our public systems — from schools to infrastructure — lack the investment they need to thrive. Too many voices in Tallahassee are being sidelined, and too many communities feel left behind. My commitment as Democratic Leader is to change that.

We will fight for a Florida where every child has access to high-quality education, where safe neighborhoods and good jobs are the norm — not the exception — and where our communities are strengthened by inclusion, not divided by fear or misinformation. I will work tirelessly to elevate policies that expand access to health care, protect voting rights, and support working families.

As someone who began my career as a teacher and nonprofit leader, I know true leadership means listening first. It means building bridges across differences and uniting around shared goals. It means advocating fiercely for those whose voices have too often gone unheard. That’s how we build lasting change — together.

My path in public service — from teaching A.P. Chemistry in Broward County classrooms to founding a youth leadership nonprofit and serving in both the Florida House and Senate — has taught me that progress never comes from complacency. It comes from collective effort, unwavering resolve, and a belief that our best days lie ahead.

To my colleagues in the Legislature, I offer a simple message: let’s show what Democrats can do when we lead with vision and purpose. Let’s pass bold, common sense legislation that improves lives. Let’s bring innovative solutions to the table and work across the aisle when it benefits Floridians, while standing firm on what’s non-negotiable.

To every Floridian watching: this moment is about you. I will be your partner in shaping a Florida that reflects our highest aspirations — equitable, just, and resilient for all.

I am deeply honored by this moment and thankful to my colleagues in the Florida Senate Democratic Caucus for their trust and confidence as we prepare to lead and grow our caucus. I am inspired and equally grateful for Leader Lori Berman’s unwavering leadership and excited to work alongside incoming Leader Tracie Davis as Senate Democrats unite and forge ahead stronger than ever.

As we unite, we must also build. That means investing in the next generation of Democratic leadership across Florida — year-round, not just in election years. We will be intentional about identifying, mentoring, and supporting leaders in every region of our state so that when the moment calls, we are ready. Protecting our seats is critical, but building a deeper bench is how we secure the future.

I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance solutions that meet the moment, move beyond gridlock and improve the lives of Floridians across our state.

Our time is now to define the next decade, and I am ready to get to work.

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Sen. Shevrin Jones serves as Senate Democratic Leader-designate.