Sen. Jim Boyd Selected to Lead Florida Senate Following 2026 Elections
Senate Republicans have officially chosen state Sen. Jim Boyd of Bradenton to serve as the next president of the Florida Senate following the 2026 elections. The formal vote took place Oct. 14 during a ceremony at the Capitol.
Boyd, 68, who represents Senate District 20 covering most of Manatee County and parts of southwestern Hillsborough County, has been a fixture in Florida politics for more than a decade. He was first elected to the Florida House in 2010 and joined the Senate in 2020.
A Bradenton native, Boyd earned degrees from Manatee Community College and Florida State University before founding an insurance and investment firm. His family has deep political roots in Manatee County — his grandfather, Hugh Boyd, and uncle, Wilbur Boyd, both served in the state Legislature during the mid-20th century.
In his address to colleagues, Boyd outlined a vision focused on fiscal responsibility, environmental protection, and adapting to the state’s rapid population growth. He pointed to infrastructure, education, and health care as key areas under pressure from Florida’s continued expansion.
Boyd also reflected on the county’s early pioneer history, invoking the legacy of Samuel Sparks Lamb, who platted Palmetto and donated land for schools, churches, and parks, emphasizing the importance of long-term community vision.
During his tenure, Boyd has sponsored several significant bills, including Senate Bill 2A in 2022, which enacted major reforms to Florida’s property insurance system. The measure sought to curb excessive litigation costs and stabilize an industry that had seen multiple insurer bankruptcies and steep rate hikes.
Boyd said the reforms are beginning to have a positive effect on the market, helping to reduce volatility and ease financial pressures on homeowners. However, he acknowledged that rates remain high. He indicated he would continue monitoring the system for further improvements as needed.
Boyd will assume the Senate presidency after the 2026 elections, succeeding current Senate leadership and continuing the chamber’s Republican majority.
