Jay Collins
Jay Collins
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Jarrid "Jay" Collins (born April 28, 1976)[1] is an American politician and Army veteran who has served as the 21st lieutenant governor of Florida since August 2025. A member of the Republican Party, he served as a member of the Florida Senate from 2022 until his resignation in 2025.

Key Information

Born and raised in Montana, Collins served in Army Special Forces for over 20 years. In 2019, he moved to Florida to raise his family and was elected to the Florida Senate in 2022. During his tenure in the state senate, he was a staunch ally of Governor Ron DeSantis. In August 2025, he was appointed as lieutenant governor, succeeding Jeanette Nuñez.

Early life, education and military service

[edit]

Collins was born in Scobey, Montana. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in health sciences and pre-medicine from American Military University, and a Master of Science in organizational leadership from Norwich University.[2][3]

Collins serving in the U.S. Army

Collins served in the United States Army from 1995 to 2018, including as member of the United States Army Special Forces. During his career, he was assigned to the United States Army Special Operations Command, Special Warfare Medical Group, 7th Special Forces Group, and 1st Special Forces Group.[4]

As a Green Beret medic, Collins deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq, and twice to South America. During his 2007 Afghanistan deployment, he was shot in the arm and helped perform surgery on himself in the field of battle. A few months later, he sustained injuries that would eventually lead to the amputation of his leg years later. Following his amputation, Collins re-qualified as a fully deployable Green Beret and served over five more years on active duty. He retired from the U.S. Army at the rank of first sergeant.[5]

His military awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, Soldier's Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Military Freefall Parachutist Badge, and numerous other personal, unit, and service awards. He is also a recipient of the U.S. Army Special Operations Command's Major General John K. Singlaub/Jedburgh Award.[6][7]

Political career

[edit]

2022 U.S House campaigns

[edit]
Main article: 2022 United States House of Representatives elections in Florida

In July 2021, Collins announced his candidacy for the U.S. Congress, challenging incumbent Democratic congresswoman Kathy Castor for Florida's 14th congressional district.[8] In May 2022, he withdrew from the race and re-filed his campaign to run in the newly drawn 15th congressional district.[9] After Laurel Lee announced her candidacy for the 15th district, Collins dropped out of the race for Congress and announced his candidacy for state senate in June 2022.[10]

Florida Senate (2022–2025)

[edit]
Main article: 2022 Florida Senate election

After announcing his candidacy for Florida's 14th Senate district, Collins received the endorsement of Governor Ron DeSantis and was unopposed in the Republican primary.[10][11][12] In November 2022, Collins was elected to the Florida Senate after defeating incumbent Democratic state senator Janet Cruz.[13] His district encompassed areas of downtown Tampa, south Tampa, MacDill AFB, and northwestern Hillsborough County.

Official state senatorial portrait of Collins, 2022

In 2023, Collins sponsored a senate bill to allow the permitless carry of concealed firearms in Florida.[14][15] The bill was signed into law by DeSantis.[14][15]

In March 2023, Collins introduced an amendment to authorize the flying of the Confederate flag on public buildings and properties in Florida.[16] Collins released a statement denying he was a "confederate sympathizer" and later claimed he authored the amendment by mistake.[16] That same month, Collins introduced a bill to ban flying the pride flag from government buildings in Florida.[17]

In 2023, Collins voted for the Heartbeat Protection Act; a six-week abortion ban in Florida.[18][19][20]

In 2024, Collins introduced a bill to allow telepharmacy in Florida and loosen regulations on pharmacist's ability to dispense prescription drugs, but it failed to pass in committee.[14][21] That same year, Collins publicly opposed the 2024 Florida Amendment 4 during the 2024 Florida elections.[22] In November 2024, the Floridian Press reported that Collins was considered as a possible replacement for outgoing U.S. senator Marco Rubio, who was nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as United States Secretary of State.[23]

In March 2025, Collins sponsored SB 918, which would change child labor laws to allow 14-17 year-olds to work more than eight hours a day on school nights and over 30 hours a week while school is in session, without mandated breaks.[24]

In 2025, Collins authored and led the effort to pass the "Pam Rock Act"; a bill requiring owners of "dangerous dogs" to register, microchip, spay/neuter their animals, and carry US$100,000 in liability insurance.[25] The bill also mandates that a dog will be euthanized if it leaves a bite mark on a human scoring five or higher on the Dunbar bite scale and allows dogs voluntarily given to the state to be euthanized.[25] It was signed into law by DeSantis in May 2025.[25]

Hope Florida scandal

[edit]
Main article: Hope Florida scandal

During the Hope Florida scandal, Collins has been described as a "vocal advocate" for Hope Florida, saying: "The money was being appropriated and used for the right reasons."[26] In May 2025, Collins spoke alongside DeSantis to defend the "great accomplishments of Hope Florida".[27] In August 2025, Collins praised Hope Florida during his speech at a Republican Party of Florida forum.[28]

Lieutenant governor of Florida (2025–present)

[edit]
Collins being sworn in by Justice Jamie Grosshans in August 2025

As early as May 2025, press reports predicted Collins as a potential choice for lieutenant governor of Florida after the resignation of Jeanette Nuñez.[29][30][28]

Collins with Governor Ron DeSantis, Sheriff Chad Chronister, and Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office deputies, 2025

On August 12, 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Collins as the 21st lieutenant governor of Florida.[31]

Since assuming office, Collins has faced a turbulent tenure as lieutenant governor. In his second week in office, Florida Politics published leaked text messages between Collins and Representative Alex Andrade revealing they believe Ron DeSantis has autism and has concealed the disorder from the public.[32][33] Later that week, Collins flew to California to escort an undocumented immigrant back to Florida to face charges for an automobile accident; denying the controversy was "performative" after receiving criticism from state legislators who questioned the legality of the extradition.[34][35][36] The week after returning from California, Collins received criticism for his political opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion while having supported DEI as chief operating officer of Operation BBQ Relief; going so far as mandating yearly DEI training and applying DEI in the selection of contractors and vendors.[37][38] After less than one month in office, Collins considered running for Florida's 14th congressional district in 2026, which would have required him to resign as lieutenant governor due to Florida's resign-to-run laws, but decided not to run.[39] Instead, he has expressed interest in running for governor of Florida in 2026.[40][41]

Personal life

[edit]

In 2019, Collins and his family moved to Florida, originally settling in Pasco County.[42] He is married to his wife, Layla; they have two sons and live in Tampa.[42] Layla was an unsuccessful candidate for Hillsborough County school board in 2024, and was appointed to the Florida Board of Education by DeSantis in July 2025.[43][44]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Jay Collins

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from Grokipedia
Jay Collins is an American politician and retired U.S. Army Special Forces officer serving as the Lieutenant Governor of Florida since 2025, alongside Governor Ron DeSantis.[1] A combat veteran and Purple Heart recipient known as a Green Beret, he completed over two decades of active duty service before entering politics.[1] As a Republican committed to conservative principles, Collins previously served in the Florida Senate and was appointed lieutenant governor following the resignation of Jeanette Nuñez.[2] In January 2026, he announced his candidacy for the 2026 Florida gubernatorial election, joining a crowded Republican primary that includes U.S. Representative Byron Donalds and others.[3][4]

Military service

Early enlistment

Collins enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1995 immediately after graduating high school.[5] He completed basic training and advanced individual training before progressing to Airborne School, where he was attending on September 11, 2001.[6] Motivated by the attacks and the role of Special Forces in the emerging fight against terrorism, Collins volunteered shortly thereafter for Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS).[6] Collins successfully passed SFAS, earning qualification as a Green Beret and selection for training as an 18D Special Forces medical sergeant, marking his entry into elite Army Special Forces roles.[6][5]

Green Beret deployments

Collins served as an 18D Special Forces medical sergeant, deploying to Afghanistan, Iraq, and twice to South America with the 7th and 1st Special Forces Groups (Airborne).[5][6] During his 2007 deployment to Afghanistan, he sustained a gunshot wound to the arm but continued combat operations, performing field surgery on himself amid a firefight and returning to duty 30 days later.[6][5] These missions exemplified his role in unconventional warfare, including medical support and tactical engagements in high-threat environments.[5] His combat service earned him the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, and Combat Infantryman Badge, recognizing valor and injuries sustained in action.[5] Collins later advanced to leadership positions within U.S. Army Special Operations Command and the Special Warfare Medical Group (Airborne), overseeing operational readiness for Special Forces medics.[5] Over his deployments, he accumulated extensive experience in training foreign forces and direct action missions, contributing to counterterrorism efforts across multiple theaters.[6][5]

Retirement from service

Collins retired from the U.S. Army in 2018 at the rank of First Sergeant after more than 23 years of active duty service.[5] His final assignment was as First Sergeant of his unit.[5] Following retirement, he transitioned to civilian life, later entering public service.[1]

Political career

Entry into politics

After retiring from the U.S. Army Special Forces, Collins joined Operation BBQ Relief, a nonprofit organization providing disaster relief meals and support to veterans, first responders, and communities facing hardships, including Floridians, which sparked his involvement in public advocacy and community service.[1] This post-military focus on veteran welfare aligned him with Republican circles, where he publicly endorsed candidates prioritizing military and conservative values, such as his op-ed backing U.S. Senator Rick Scott for emphasizing Florida's veteran-friendly initiatives.[7] As a Republican, Collins bridged his Green Beret experience to political networking through veteran advocacy events and affiliations with conservative groups, emphasizing principles like strong national defense and support for service members transitioning to civilian life.

2022 lieutenant gubernatorial election

The 2022 Florida lieutenant gubernatorial election took place on November 8, 2022, concurrently with the gubernatorial election, as the lieutenant governor position is filled by the gubernatorial candidate's chosen running mate. Incumbent Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Núñez served as running mate to Governor Ron DeSantis on the Republican ticket, facing no contested primary. The Republican ticket won decisively against the Democratic nominees, former Governor Charlie Crist and Karla Hernández-Mats, capturing 59.4% of the vote and a margin of more than 2 million votes statewide.[8] DeSantis and Núñez's campaign emphasized conservative policies, economic growth, and opposition to federal mandates, contributing to strong voter turnout and support in key regions. Results were certified by the Florida Department of State, leading to Núñez's re-inauguration as the 20th lieutenant governor in January 2023.[9]

Tenure as Lieutenant Governor

Collins was appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis on August 12, 2025, to serve as Florida's 21st Lieutenant Governor, filling the vacancy left by Jeanette Nuñez's resignation earlier that year, and was sworn in the same day.[10] In this role, he presides over sessions of the Florida Senate, casting tie-breaking votes when necessary, and assumes acting governor duties during the governor's absence or incapacity.[10] As chair of the Florida Health Care Innovation Council, Collins has supported initiatives to enhance health care access, including the announcement of a $50 million revolving loan program aimed at fostering innovative health solutions across the state.[11] He emphasized commitment to quality care improvements in public statements tied to the program.[11] Collins has engaged in public safety efforts, announcing a joint operation in October 2025 between the Florida Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration targeting fentanyl trafficking in West Palm Beach.[12] Additionally, he visited Tampa General Hospital in November 2025 to highlight support for veterans' health services, drawing on his military background.[13]

2026 gubernatorial campaign

Campaign announcement

Collins formally announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination in the 2026 Florida gubernatorial election on January 12, 2026.[4][14] As the incumbent lieutenant governor, Collins positioned the bid as a continuation of conservative leadership in the state.[15][16] The announcement generated swift media coverage across Florida outlets, highlighting the intensifying GOP primary competition.[17][18]

Platform and endorsements

Collins emphasized conservative principles rooted in his military service, including accountability, service before self, and leadership forged under pressure rather than in soundbites.[19] He pledged to advance a bold conservative agenda that builds on his work with Governor Ron DeSantis, prioritizing personal responsibility, freedom, and opportunity to keep Florida strong.[19] Key policy teases included fostering a strong economy, securing borders, and standing with law enforcement to protect communities, all framed under an America First approach that puts families and Floridians first.[19] At the time of his announcement, Collins had not secured formal endorsements for the gubernatorial bid, though his close alliance with DeSantis—stemming from his appointment as lieutenant governor and prior legislative collaboration—positions him within the governor's political network.[19] DeSantis has praised Collins as a "warrior" and productive conservative ally but has not committed to an endorsement in the primary.[20] His military background may draw support from veteran and Special Forces communities, though no specific endorsers from those networks were highlighted in the kickoff.[21]

Primary competition

U.S. Representative Byron Donalds, a Naples Republican serving Florida's 19th congressional district since 2021, has emerged as a leading contender in the 2026 Republican primary, leveraging his congressional experience on issues like fiscal conservatism and border security, bolstered by an endorsement from former President Donald Trump.[22][23] Investor James Fishback, a fourth-generation Floridian and CEO of the hedge fund Azoria Partners, brings a business-oriented perspective to the race, emphasizing economic policies to enhance affordability in the state.[24] Early polling among likely Republican primary voters indicates Donalds holds a commanding lead, with one survey of 600 respondents showing him significantly ahead of the field following the inclusion of his Trump endorsement.[22] The crowded primary features strategic contrasts, including Donalds' alignment with Trump-era priorities against Collins' emphasis on continuity with DeSantis' governance style. Collins differentiates himself through his 23 years as a U.S. Army Special Forces officer and his role as Lieutenant Governor, highlighting executive experience in state administration and national security expertise amid rivals' focuses on congressional or private-sector backgrounds.[15][23]

References

  1. Jay Collins | Executive Office of the Governor
  2. https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/florida-lt-gov-jay-collins-announces-candidacy-for-governor/3747778/
  3. https://www.wesh.com/article/florida-lt-gov-jay-collins-joins-2026-governor-republican-primary/69979681
  4. Collins announces bid for governor as DeSantis wavers on whether ...
  5. Meet Jay - Jay Collins for Florida
  6. Green Beret Becomes 21st Florida Lt. Governor
  7. https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nc/coastal/news/2026/01/12/lt--gov--jay-collins-announces-bid-for-florida-governor
  8. Jay Collins: Our veterans need Rick Scott in Washington
  9. Florida Governor Election Results 2022: Live Map - Politico
  10. 2022 General Election - Summary Results - Election Night Reporting
  11. Florida has a new lieutenant governor, Jay Collins. What do they do?
  12. Florida Department of Health Announces Annual $50 Million Health ...
  13. [PDF] Palm Beach County State Legislative Update
  14. Tampa General Hospital Celebrates American Veterans With ...
  15. https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/florida-lt-gov-jay-collins-enters-governors-race-setting-up-crowded-gop-primary
  16. https://www.politico.com/news/2026/01/12/floridas-lieutenant-governor-jumps-into-crowded-gop-governor-race-00722270
  17. https://www.cnn.com/2026/01/12/politics/jay-collins-florida-governor?cid=external-feeds_iluminar_google
  18. https://www.wusf.org/politics-issues/2026-01-12/tampa-republican-jay-collins-announces-florida-governor-bid
  19. https://www.firstcoastnews.com/article/news/regional/florida/jay-collins-joins-florida-governors-race/67-e7d2c31c-c1b1-46c3-81bd-b5eaada57bfc
  20. Jay Collins declares for Governor
  21. Collins launches gubernatorial bid | WUWF
  22. Florida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins joins 2026 governor Republican primary against Trump-backed candidate - WTOP News
  23. https://floridaphoenix.com/briefs/latest-2026-florida-gop-gubernatorial-poll-shows-byron-donalds-blowing-away-the-rest-of-the-field/
  24. https://www.sun-sentinel.com/2026/01/12/jay-collins-is-running-for-governor-setting-up-gop-primary-with-trump-backed-byron-donalds/
  25. Fishback for Florida Governor
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