On August 12, 2025, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis appointed State Senator Jay Collins as the state’s 21st lieutenant governor. The announcement was made during a press conference at the Tampa Green Beret Association, reflecting Collins’ deep ties to the military community.

A Distinguished Military Career

Born in Scobey, Montana, in 1976, Collins served in the U.S. Army from 1995 to 2018. As a Green Beret medic, he completed multiple deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, and South America. In 2007, he was shot in the arm during a mission in Afghanistan and performed surgery on himself in the field. Later, injuries led to the amputation of his leg, but he continued to serve for five more years, retiring as a first sergeant. His military honors include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Soldier’s Medal.

Political Rise in Florida

After relocating to Florida in 2019, Collins was elected to the Florida Senate in 2022, representing District 14 in Hillsborough County. He quickly became a staunch ally of Governor DeSantis, supporting initiatives like the Hope Florida program and coordinating disaster relief efforts, including evacuations from Israel during recent conflicts.

A Potential Successor to DeSantis

With DeSantis unable to seek re-election in 2026, Collins’ appointment positions him as a potential gubernatorial candidate. His alignment with DeSantis could set up a political contest with Representative Byron Donalds, who has been endorsed by former President Donald Trump.

Sworn In and Ready to Serve

Following the announcement, Collins was sworn in as lieutenant governor in a ceremony attended by his family and Governor DeSantis. In his remarks, Collins expressed his commitment to supporting DeSantis’ agenda and continuing Florida’s conservative policies.