Senate Democrats have selected the leader to take them into the next decade.
Senators voted to designate Shevrin Jones as Senate Democratic Leader for the 2028-30 cycle, positioning the Miami Gardens Democrat to take the helm following the 2026-2028 term of current Leader-designate Tracie Davis.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to be elected as Senate Democratic Leader Designate. I want to thank my colleagues in the Florida Senate Democratic Caucus for their trust and confidence as we prepare to lead and grow our caucus,” Jones said.
He also praised current Senate Democratic Leader Lori Berman for her “unwavering leadership” and said he looks forward to working alongside Davis as Senate Democrats “unite and forge ahead stronger than ever.”
In his statement, Jones pointed to what he described as “profound challenges” facing the state, including housing affordability, access to health care, voting rights and economic opportunity for working families.
“As Democrats in the Senate, we have a responsibility to lead with courage, compassion, and a relentless commitment to the people we serve,” Jones said. “Together, we will work every day to build a Florida where opportunity is within reach for all — regardless of who you are or where you come from.”
Berman, who ascended to Senate Democratic Leader after now-independent Sen. Jason Pizzo stepped down last year, said she was “thrilled” to support Jones as Leader-designate.
“Senator Jones has a long track record of putting Floridians first and fighting for policies to make Florida a more affordable and welcoming place for all. I know his compassionate leadership style will steer Senate Democrats well. Our caucus will be in good hands,” she said.
First elected to the House in 2012, Jones served four terms in the lower chamber, including as Democratic Deputy Whip during the 2016-18 term and Deputy Democratic Leader for 2018-20. He joined the Senate after the 2020 election and was subsequently re-elected in 2022.
