Walter Price first to seek HD 55 seat after Kevin Steele announcement

First responder Walter Price is the first to enter the House District 55 race to replace Rep. Kevin Steele, who is running for Chief Financial Officer and not seeking re-election.

The district includes parts of Hillsborough and Pasco counties, where Price has been a resident for nearly 20 years.

Price, a Republican, serves as a captain with the Pasco County Fire Rescue Department, and has served as a first responder for nearly 10 years.

“As a firefighter and community servant, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges our families face and the strength which makes Pasco County such a special place to live,” Price said. “I’m running for the Florida House to ensure our community’s voice is heard — to protect our families, strengthen public safety, and help small businesses thrive.”

Price enters the race with support from Sen. Ed Hooper, the Senate budget chief, and Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco.

“Throughout his career, Walter has shown an unwavering commitment to protecting our families, supporting our small businesses, and strengthening our communities. He’s never been afraid to roll up his sleeves, listen to his neighbors, and fight for what’s right — values we desperately need in Tallahassee,” Hooper said.

“Pasco County deserves a representative who knows our community, who has lived our challenges, and who will work tirelessly to deliver results. Walter Price is that leader. I trust him to represent our county with honor and bring the same dedication to the Florida House he has shown throughout his life of service.”

Nocco also praised Price’s leadership and commitment to public safety.

“I am proud to stand with firefighter Walter Price. Walter is a proven leader who will not back down when tough decisions have to be made. Walter understands that a safe community leads to an economically successful community and will always support public safety as we keep our community safe,” he said.

Price’s campaign will center on public safety, responsible growth, small-business support and protecting quality of life.

“This community has given so much to me and my family,” Price said. “As your representative, I will work every day to make sure Pasco County remains safe, strong, and full of opportunity for future generations.”

Price lives in Land O’ Lakes with his wife, Stacey, and their three children.

Steele, also a Republican, has represented the district since 2022. He announced this week, after weeks of speculation, that he would run for CFO, challenging appointed incumbent Blaise Ingoglia in what is quickly becoming a crowded GOP Primary. As of Thursday, no Democrat had yet entered the race.

Steele’s name came up for CFO after a meeting at the White House in which Trump administration officials reportedly encouraged him to run against Ingoglia, who was appointed to the post by Gov. Ron DeSantis. DeSantis and President Donald Trump have a well-known feud stemming from DeSantis’ unsuccessful presidential bid in 2024.