Leader-Designate Lauren Book will take over immediately, leading through 2024
Florida Senate Democrats held a vote today to elevate Senate Democratic Leader-Designate Lauren Book (D-Plantation) to the position of Democratic Leader, effective immediately. Senator Book will begin her term early, taking over the Caucus today to serve as the Senate Democratic Leader – with Senator Bobby Powell continuing to serve as Democratic Leader Pro Tempore.
“There is much work to be done and it’s time to have a united Caucus that is ready for the important work of Redistricting and the next legislative session,” says Senator Book. “I am grateful to Senator Farmer for his service to Senate Democrats, and I know we will continue to work together for the good of our Members and the best interests of Floridians. We are united on our values and shared respect for the issues and causes that will make Florida a better State.”
Earlier this month, Senator Book was elected to lead Florida Senate Democrats through 2024, after previously elected Leader-Designate Senator Perry Thurston (D-Ft. Lauderdale) announced his decision to resign from the Florida Senate after the 2021 Session in order to run for late Congressman Alcee Hastings’ open seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Book’s designation as Leader will mark the first time the Florida Senate will be led by two women.
Senator Book is expected to bring strong, results-oriented leadership to her Caucus – stating the following after being elected Leader-designate:
“I believe that through effective consensus building, Senate Democrats can be powerfully pragmatic without compromising our principles, and there is no doubt the people of Florida deserve that much from their elected leaders.”
Senator Book – a mother of four-year-old boy/girl twins and fierce advocate for Florida’s children and families – was elected to the Florida Senate in 2016 and currently serves as the Chair of the Senate Committee on Children, Families, and Elder Affairs, Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Regulated Industries, and six other committees including the influential Committees on Rules and Appropriations.
Senator Book served as the Senate Democratic Leader Pro Tempore from 2016-18 alongside former Leader Oscar Braynon, and served as a Democratic Minority Whip for Leader Gary Farmer before his removal today.
