Jay Collins tosses support behind Rep. Tom Leek for State Senate seat
ORMOND BEACH, Fla. – Sen. Jay Collins, R-Tampa, endorsed Rep. Tom Leek, R-Ormond Beach, for the open Senate District 7 seat in Florida, which is presently occupied by term-limited Sen. Travis Hutson, R-Palm Coast.
“It takes devotion, endurance, and integrity to lead well—something I have learned from over two decades in the Army Special Forces—and I have witnessed Tom Leek’s embodiment of these qualities during his distinguished service in the Florida Legislature,” Collins said.
“He stands up for Florida’s families, supports law enforcement officers, and aims to protect the rights of all Floridians in everything he does,” Collins continued. “I proudly endorse his campaign and would be honored to serve alongside him next year in the Florida Senate.”
Leek’s political journey began with his election to represent State House District 25 in 2016. Following redistricting, he secured re-election in State House District 28 in 2022.
Collins is recognized for his exceptional service and dedication to the U.S. He served as a decorated Army Special Forces combat veteran and is a recipient of the Purple Heart.
The senator’s military career spans over twenty years, during which he spent five years as an active-duty Green Beret, even after the amputation of his leg. Elected to the Florida Senate in 2022, Collins currently holds the position of chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee and serves as a member of the Senate Military and Veterans Affairs, Space, and Domestic Security Committee.
“I have witnessed Sen. Collins’ dedication to his community and upholding his beliefs,” Leek said. “I know his endorsement comes with thoughtful consideration and strong conviction. I am grateful for his support and would consider it a privilege to join him in fighting for conservative values and policies in the state Senate,”
Known for his conservative stances, Leek gained recognition in the House as a “conservative leader,” according to a press release. Notably, he has held positions as a committee chairman and has been an integral part of the leadership teams under the last three speakers in the Florida House.
Leek worked with House Speaker Paul Renner, R-Palm Coast, serving as the chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. Previously, he has chaired several other committees, including the Public Ethics and Integrity Committee, the Pandemics and Public Emergencies Committee, and the Redistricting Committee.
During his tenure in the Florida House, Leek has achieved notable milestones, including the passage of significant legislation aimed at positioning Florida as a leading advocate for law enforcement.
His efforts have focused on enhancing the recruitment, retention, and recognition of police officers, thereby solidifying the state’s reputation as “the most law enforcement-friendly state in the union.”
Leek has also played a pivotal role in passing legislation concerning emergency management and the prohibition of “vaccine passports.”
The representative has actively contributed to conservative initiatives, particularly in areas such as school choice, economic development, and policies supporting family values.
Leek currently holds the position of chief legal officer and executive vice president at Foundation Risk Partners, Corp., a prominent national insurance brokerage firm.
He began working for the company in 2018 following a 21-year tenure at the Daytona Beach-based law firm Cobb Cole. During his time there, he led the firm as a managing partner.
The representative declared his candidacy for the Republican Senate District 7 seat in January. The district encompasses Flagler, Putnam, St. Johns, and portions of Volusia Counties.
Leek’s campaign has garnered other notable endorsements, including support from U.S. Republican Florida Reps. Michael Waltz and Cory Mills, as well as all four sheriffs within District 7, which include Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly, Putnam County Sheriff H.D. DeLoach, St. Johns County Sheriff Robert Hardwick, and Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood also endorsed Leek.
Additionally, State Attorney R.J. Larizza, and Public Defender Matthew Metz, both from the Seventh Judicial Circuit, have endorsed Leek. Hutson, who Leek would potentially be replacing, has also lent his support to Leek’s candidacy.
