The Republican Party of Florida has officially named Senator Rick Scott as its 2026 Statesman of the Year. This annual award, which stands as the highest honor handed out by the state party, aims to recognize Scott’s long-standing career in Florida politics and his track record in Washington.
Party officials confirmed that the award ceremony will take place on June 27, 2026.
The event is scheduled as a centerpiece of the Florida GOP’s “Sunshine State Showdown,” a major gathering of elected representatives and grassroots organizers hosted at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood.
Florida GOP Chairman Evan Power praised the Senator’s history of public service, which spans from his time in the U.S. Navy to his two terms as Governor and his current seat in the Senate.
Power noted that the party chose Scott for his focus on fiscal responsibility and his ability to produce tangible results for his constituents. “Senator Rick Scott has been a tireless advocate for Florida families,” Power said, adding that Scott “has demonstrated what it means to lead with purpose, principle, and accountability.”
READ: Florida Sen. Rick Scott Presses War Dept. Leaders On 30-Year Recruiting High, Global Arms Strategy
Scott’s political career has been defined largely by his economic platform. During his eight years in the Governor’s mansion, he became well-known for his singular focus on job creation.
Since moving to the U.S. Senate, he has maintained that focus by advocating for reduced federal spending and tighter national security measures.
The Statesman of the Year distinction follows a tradition of honoring high-profile conservative figures. Scott follows in the footsteps of the 2025 recipient, Susie Wiles, who currently serves as the White House Chief of Staff.
The upcoming June event is expected to draw a significant crowd of supporters from across the state as the party celebrates Scott’s contributions to Florida’s political landscape.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox
