TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WFLA) — The last legislative session was not only long, but also marked by political conflict between Florida’s Governor, Senate, and House leadership. The question now is whether there will be another clash at the Capitol.
Tensions from the last legislative session could carry over into the new year, as state lawmakers return to the Capitol for another committee week and prepare for the next legislative session, which begins in January.
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The 2025 session was one of the longest in Florida history. This year was supposed to be a year of affordability, but it was filled with immigration, property taxes, insurance issues, tax cuts, and clashes at the Capitol over Hope Florida.
And next year, we can expect another heated debate.
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“I think this legislative session will have its ups and downs,” said state Rep. Sam Garrison (R-Fleming Island).
“We’re not entirely sure how this session is going to go,” said state Rep. Fentris Driskel, D-Tampa. “We’re all watching in anticipation, but I don’t know if relations have necessarily improved. If anything, it feels like we’ve taken a break and come back for the second act.”
As Florida Democrats wait to see how the start of the session will go, Republicans say it’s normal for tensions to mount throughout the Rotunda and with the executive branch.
“It’s designed to be disruptive. It’s designed to be debated, and the Speaker isn’t afraid of that. I’m not afraid of that. The Governor isn’t afraid of that. The Senate isn’t afraid of that. We’re going to work on these kinds of issues,” said Rep. Garrison.
Garrison believes that’s not the way to get there. What really matters is the final product.
“We can debate it, we can debate it, but at the end of the day, let’s not be complacent and let’s keep our eyes on the ball in the direction we want it to go,” said Congressman Garrison.
Mr. DeSantis is in his final term, and state leaders expect a push for redistricting, property tax reform and “health care freedom” policies as his final wish list.
