INCOMING SENATE PRESIDENT MIKE HARIDOPOLOS ANNOUNCES PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE AND MAJORITY LEADER

TALLAHASSEE – Incoming Florida Senate President Mike Haridopolos today announced two members of his senior leadership team that will work with him once he takes the helm of the Senate on November 16.

The team includes:

• Senator Mike Bennett, President pro tempore
• Senator Andy Gardiner, Majority Leader

"My senior leadership team has a tremendous amount of experience serving the people of Florida,” said incoming President Haridopolos. “Florida faces serious challenges and we need proven leaders to guide us through these difficult times. I’m pleased to have Senators Bennett and Gardiner as members of my leadership team, and like me, they’ll have one primary focus – helping get Florida’s economy back on track.”

President Pro Tempore-nominee Mike Bennett (R-Bradenton) was first elected to the Senate in 2002. He previously served in the House of Representatives from 2000 to 2002. Senator Bennett’s position as President pro tempore requires approval by the Senate.

“I’m pleased that Mike Bennett has agreed to serve as President Pro Tempore,” said incoming President Haridopolos. “He has the respect of the entire Senate and is known for bringing a common sense business approach to government. I trust and value his counsel.”

Majority Leader Andy Gardiner (R-Orlando) has served in the Senate since 2008. Prior to his election to the Senate, he served eight years in the House of Representatives.  From 2004-2006, Senator Gardiner served as House Majority Leader.

“Andy Gardiner is the ideal person to lead the 28 member Republican Caucus,” said incoming President Haridopolos. “This is the largest Majority Caucus in nearly 25 years. Senator Gardiner’s previous experience in the House will help him ensure the Republican majority is organized and ready to work for the people of Florida.”

The new appointments are effective November 16 when the Senate meets in organization session.

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