Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson knows a thing or two about picking strong crops — and in House District 51, he’s picking Hilary Holley to replace Rep. Josie Tomkow.
Simpson, a longtime farmer and one of the most influential voices in Florida agriculture, said Holley’s background makes her a natural fit to represent the Polk County-based district.
“Hilary is a conservative leader with a record supporting Florida’s agricultural industry,” Simpson said. “She has demonstrated a strong commitment to the values that matter most to the people of Polk County, from supporting farmers and ranchers to protecting our natural resources and defending our freedoms. I am confident that Hilary will be an advocate in the Legislature for agriculture, rural communities, and the values that keep Florida free.”
Holley, who currently serves as Executive Director of the Florida FFA Foundation, said she was “deeply honored” to earn Simpson’s support.
“His support of my campaign is a true testament to our shared commitment to strengthening Florida’s agricultural economy, supporting rural communities, and preserving the values that make our state the best for agriculture,” Holley said. “I look forward to our work together in service of Florida’s ranchers and families.”
Both Simpson and Holley come from deep agricultural roots. Simpson, a Pasco County egg farmer and former Senate President, has long championed Florida’s growers and ranchers in both the Legislature and Cabinet. Holley, a fifth-generation Floridian and cattle rancher from Polk City, has spent her career working in agricultural education and advocacy.
Before joining the Florida FFA Foundation, she served as a legislative aide to then-Sen. Denise Grimsley, Agriculture Education Coordinator under former Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam, and as Regional Director of External Affairs for CFO Jimmy Patronis.
Holley formally entered the HD 51 race last week and has already secured endorsements from Tomkow and fellow Polk County Republicans Rep. Jon Albert and Rep. Jennifer Kincart Jonsson.
The district includes portions of northern Polk County, encompassing communities such as Polk City, Auburndale and Lake Alfred. Tomkow is barred from running again due to term limits, but could be a contender for Senate District 14 to replace former Sen. Jay Collins, who is now serving as Lieutenant Governor.
