Wilton Simpson’s re-election bid takes further root with nursery growers’ backing

Wilton Simpson just picked up a green thumb’s worth of support.

FNGLA-PAC, the political arm of the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association, is endorsing the Agriculture Commissioner’s re-election bid — putting the nation’s largest nursery, greenhouse and landscape association firmly in his corner.

The group represents more than 1,700 member businesses and thousands of industry professionals tied to a sector that packs a $41.9 billion economic punch and supports more than 279,000 jobs across the state.

“Throughout his tenure, Commissioner Wilton Simpson has been a steadfast advocate for Florida’s nursery and landscape industry,” said Tal Coley, FNGLA’s chief executive officer.

“Whether advocating for disaster recovery assistance following hurricanes and severe weather events or supporting policies that protect our industry’s ability to choose the right equipment for the job, he has been a reliable partner for Florida agriculture.”

Coley pointed to Simpson’s habit of picking up the phone.

“Commissioner Simpson has consistently listened to our members and worked alongside our industry to elevate the issues that matter,” he said. “We look forward to continuing our work together to ensure Florida’s nursery and landscape industry remains strong, competitive and prepared for the future.”

Simpson, for his part, welcomed the nod.

“I am proud to have the endorsement of FNGLA and the thousands of growers and landscape professionals they represent across our state,” Simpson said. “Florida’s nursery and landscape industry is a vital part of our agricultural economy and our communities. I am grateful for their partnership and support as we continue working to protect and promote Florida agriculture.”

FNGLA-PAC bills itself as a bipartisan fund dedicated to boosting the visibility of — and lending campaign muscle to — state legislators and candidates who back the green industry.

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Ed. note: This story was drafted with assistance from AI. Editorial judgment, sourcing, and final review were performed by Peter Schorsch and the Florida Politics editorial team.