First Republican files to succeed Josie Tomkow in HD 51

Hilary Holley, an agricultural leader in the state, is the first Republican to announce a bid for House District 51 to succeed Republican Rep. Josie Tomkow, who is term-limited.

Holley is the Executive Director for the Florida FFA Foundation, which she joined in 2021. Also known as Future Farmers of America, Holley oversees the Florida chapter’s strategic initiatives, fundraising efforts and outreach programs supporting more than 65,000 Florida FFA members.

“The foundation for our state’s success is rooted in the bold, conservative actions of leaders in Tallahassee who prioritized fiscal responsibility, enforced the rule of law, and defended parental rights,” Holley said in a campaign announcement.

“Over the past decade, Florida has emerged as a beacon of freedom and prosperity. To continue this momentum, we need leaders committed to defending conservative values, advocating for common sense, and making life more affordable for hardworking Floridians.”

Holley previously worked as a public servant and in agricultural education, serving as a legislative aide to former Republican Sen. Denise Grimsley, and as the Education Coordinator for former Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam. She also formerly served as the West Central Florida Regional Director for External Affairs for former Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis, who is now serving in Congress.

Holley earned her undergraduate degree in agricultural education and communication from the University of Florida, specializing in communication and leadership development. She lives on a family ranch in Polk City with her husband and two children, where they care for cattle.

“With deep family roots in our agriculture industry, I see firsthand every day the dedication and hard work it takes to feed our state and preserve Florida’s natural beauty,” Holley said.

“I’m running to bring the same conservative values that define Florida’s Heartland to help make our state an even better place to live, work, and raise a family. I’m excited for the campaign ahead and look forward to taking our Florida First message to every doorstep of District 51.”

HD 51 includes much of Polk County, including Polk City, Davenport, Haines City, Lake Alfred and Auburndale.

A Democrat has already filed for the race, Octavio Hernandez, though the race will favor the GOP nominee. Nearly 34% of the electorate is registered to the GOP, compared to just 31% who are registered Democrats. Nearly 32% of the district is not affiliated with a political party, according to the most recent L2 voter data.

Tomkow won her most recent re-election, in 2024, with nearly 57% of the vote over Hernandez. In 2022, she won with more than one 7% of the vote.

Tomkow is rumored to be among the top GOP picks to run for Senate District 14 to replace former Sen. Jay Collins, who is now serving as Lieutenant Governor.