The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) has endorsed Representative Tom Leek, a Republican from Ormond Beach, for the Florida Senate District 7 seat. Carol Dover, President & CEO of FRLA, stated, "On behalf of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association and Florida’s premier hospitality and tourism industry, I am proud to endorse Representative Tom Leek for Florida’s open seat in Senate District 7." She highlighted Leek's leadership in promoting business-friendly policies and his role in advancing the state's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Leek was first elected to serve State House District 25 in 2016 and re-elected in State House District 28 in 2022 following redistricting. He is a graduate of the University of Central Florida and Stetson University College of Law. Residing in Ormond Beach with his wife Michelle and their two daughters, Leek has held significant roles within the House, including Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee under Speaker Paul Renner.
His legislative accomplishments include supporting law enforcement through recruitment initiatives, emergency management legislation, and banning vaccine passports. In addition to his political career, Leek serves as Chief Legal Officer and Executive Vice President at Foundation Risk Partners, Corp., after a long tenure at Cobb Cole law firm.
The FRLA represents over 10,000 members across various sectors of Florida's hospitality industry. The association aims to protect and promote the interests of its members through legislative advocacy and regulatory compliance training.
###