Paul Renner’s gubernatorial campaign is heading to Sarasota in a push to reach voters in the business community amid a competitive GOP Primary.
Renner, a Palm Coast Republican and former House Speaker, will make his case during The Argus Foundation “Meet the Minds” luncheon series Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Michael’s on East. He entered the Governor’s race in September, framing his candidacy around a lifetime of service ranging from military deployments to leading what he called “the most conservative Legislative Sessions in Florida’s history.”
“Speaker Renner has dedicated his life to service — in uniform, in the courtroom, and in the Florida House,” The Argus Foundation Executive Director Christine Robinson said. “Our members look forward to hearing his vision for Florida’s future and engaging in a thoughtful discussion about the challenges and opportunities facing our state.”
A U.S. Navy veteran, former prosecutor, and business attorney, Renner began his legal career as an Assistant State Attorney prosecuting serious felony offenses. He was raised in Northeast Florida, earned his Bachelor of Arts in history from Davidson College and his Juris Doctor from the University of Florida Levin College of Law.
He has represented individuals and businesses in a broad range of commercial settings since 1998. During his military service, Renner participated in Operation Desert Storm during combat operations aboard the USS McInerney and later during combat operations in Afghanistan in 2011.
Renner was elected to the House in 2015 and served as Speaker from 2022 to 2024. Gov. Ron DeSantis recently appointed Renner to the Board of Governors for Florida’s State University System. Renner lives in Palm Coast with his wife and two children.
Since launching his campaign, Renner has called for property tax reform, school choice expansion, litigation reforms and immigration crackdowns. He recently criticized the Legislature for prioritizing other issues while “millions of Floridians” await relief.
Renner is the third declared gubernatorial candidate to address Argus members this election cycle, following appearances by U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds and former U.S. Rep. David Jolly.
