LAKE COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) — Florida Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins is positioning his military background and “warrior leadership” philosophy as a central message in his campaign for governor as he works to gain momentum in Florida’s competitive Republican primary race.

FNN Politics & Power Talk Show with host Jenny Rosario

Speaking during a South Lake Chamber of Commerce business roundtable in Clermont and later in an exclusive interview with FNN Politics & Power host Jenny Rosario, Collins emphasized leadership shaped by military service, resilience and crisis management rather than traditional politics.

“I don’t consider myself a politician,” Collins said during the discussion. “I consider myself a warrior focused on service, leadership and solving problems.”

A 23-year Army veteran and former Green Beret, Collins spoke openly about the severe combat injuries he sustained during military service, including the loss of a leg while deployed overseas. He described moments during combat operations when he performed emergency medical treatment on himself while under extreme conditions.

Collins said those life experiences helped shape the leadership approach he believes Floridians are seeking in their next governor.

Throughout the event, Collins repeatedly stressed the importance of decisive leadership during times of economic uncertainty, natural disasters and national security concerns. He pointed to his leadership role with Operation BBQ Relief, a nonprofit organization that has helped provide more than 1.65 million hot meals to Florida communities impacted by hurricanes and other disasters.

The roundtable discussion focused heavily on Florida’s economy, workforce development, education reform and agriculture.

Collins highlighted Operation F3 — Fortifying Florida’s Workforce — an initiative aimed at expanding workforce opportunities in aerospace, aviation, manufacturing, skilled trades and national security industries. He said Florida must continue strengthening domestic manufacturing and preparing students for future job markets.

Education reform also remained a major focus of the discussion. Collins advocated for what he described as a more classical approach to education centered on foundational academics, critical thinking, civic understanding and workforce readiness.

Raised in rural Montana after being adopted by his grandparents, Collins shared personal stories about growing up in poverty on a farm, experiences he said taught him discipline, perseverance and appreciation for agriculture and small-town communities.

Now residing in Odessa in Hillsborough County, Collins said he remains committed to protecting Florida’s agriculture and maritime industries while supporting continued economic growth statewide.

Additional topics discussed during the event included H-1B visas, national security, economic stability and the recent Raul Castro indictment, which Collins connected to broader concerns about leadership accountability and public safety.

As Florida’s 2026 governor’s race continues to take shape, Collins faces growing competition in the Republican primary field. Byron Donalds is currently viewed by many political observers as the Republican front-runner following an endorsement from President Donald Trump.

When asked about Trump and Governor Ron DeSantis, Collins said he believes Trump has not yet had the opportunity to know him personally. He also emphasized that DeSantis selected him as lieutenant governor because he trusted Collins’ readiness to lead the state if needed.

Collins closed the event by saying his campaign is ultimately focused on creating greater opportunities for future generations and leaving Florida stronger for his children and families across the state.

Florida’s Republican gubernatorial primary election is scheduled for Aug. 18, 2026.

BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) — Ron DeSantis held a property tax relief roundtable Monday in Melbourne, making the case for sweeping tax relief for Florida homeowners while urging state lawmakers to finalize the budget so the proposal can move forward.

Speaking at the Space Coast Association of Realtors, DeSantis said a ballot initiative centered on homestead exemptions for Florida residents is the next major item on his agenda once state budget negotiations are completed.

“This is something that a lot of people have been talking about for a long time,” DeSantis said. “Once there’s a budget agreement, then we move forward on putting something on the ballot for property tax.”

PROPERTY TAX RELIEF PLAN

The governor said the proposal would focus on providing relief to homeowners with homesteaded primary residences across Florida. DeSantis argued that rising property values and increased local government revenues have placed added pressure on homeowners already dealing with higher insurance premiums and overall living costs.

The proposed reforms are expected to center around homestead exemptions and could ultimately require voter approval through a statewide constitutional amendment.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT REVENUE SURGE

DeSantis pointed to a dramatic increase in local government property tax collections as a major reason for pursuing reform. According to the governor, local governments across Florida collected approximately $32 billion in property tax revenue in 2019. That figure has now climbed to nearly $60 billion in 2026.

The governor said the sharp increase demonstrates that local governments have experienced significant revenue growth during the state’s population and housing boom.

NEXT STEPS IN TALLAHASSEE

Before any proposal can advance to voters, lawmakers must first finalize the state budget during the current legislative process. DeSantis indicated property tax reform discussions could intensify once a budget agreement is reached.

The governor has continued to position property tax relief as a major legislative priority heading into the 2026 election cycle.