Josie Tomkow backs Hilary Holley as preferred successor as other Polk Republicans offer support

Hilary Holley is quickly racking up support in her bid to succeed Rep. Josie Tomkow in House District 51.

Holley announced that she has earned an endorsement from Tomkow herself, along with backing from Polk County Republican Reps. Jon Albert and Jennifer Kincart Jonsson.

Tomkow, who is leaving the Legislature after four terms, called Holley “a hard-working, conservative leader who will represent our community’s values in Tallahassee.”

“With a love of Polk County and a commitment to our agricultural industry, Hilary understands just how important it is we continue to support our farmers and ranchers, protect our quality of life, and keep Florida the freest state in the nation,” Tomkow said. “I’m excited to see all that she will accomplish for District 51 and I’m proud to endorse her.”

Albert praised Holley as a “principled conservative” ready to step into the role. “Polk County’s success depends on leaders who are willing to fight for what they believe in and stand up for common sense and Hilary Holley will do just that,” Albert said. “I look forward to working with Hilary in Tallahassee to keep Florida on the right track and make our state an even better place to live, work, and visit.”

Kincart Jonsson pointed to Holley’s deep family roots in Polk County, saying voters can “count on Hilary to stand up for the commonsense values that have made Florida a nationwide leader and beacon of freedom for all.”

Holley formally entered the race Tuesday, becoming the first Republican to file for the open seat. Democrat Octavio Hernandez has also filed.

The district, however, favors Republicans. HD 51 covers parts of Polk County, including Polk City, Auburndale and Lake Alfred. Tomkow defeated Hernandez in 2024, earning nearly 57% of the vote..

Holley currently serves as Executive Director of the Florida FFA Foundation, where she leads fundraising and outreach for more than 65,000 active members statewide.

She is a University of Florida graduate who previously worked as a legislative aide to former Sen. Denise Grimsley, Agriculture Education Coordinator for former Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam, and Regional Director of External Affairs for then-Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis, who is now a Congressman.

A fifth-generation Floridian, Holley lives in Polk City with her husband, Dusty, and their two children.