Today, the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) officially endorsed Jimmy Patronis, Florida's Chief Financial Officer, for the U.S. House of Representatives in Florida’s 1st Congressional District. The endorsement followed a unanimous vote by the FRLA Board of Directors.
Carol Dover, President & CEO of FRLA, stated, “On behalf of Florida’s hospitality industry, the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association is proud to endorse CFO Jimmy Patronis for CD-1.” She highlighted Patronis' nearly decade-long service as CFO and his dedication to financial oversight in Florida. Dover added that Patronis has been a reliable ally for the hospitality industry and praised his leadership qualities.
Patronis has a history in public service from his time in the Florida House of Representatives to his current role as CFO. During the COVID pandemic, he advocated for keeping hotels and restaurants open. His family's involvement in the restaurant industry has strengthened his ties with Florida's hospitality sector.
Nick Sarra, FRLA Chairman of the Board and Partner & CEO of Saltwater Restaurants in the Florida Panhandle, commented on Patronis' understanding of promoting tourism and hospitality: “CFO Patronis has a deep understanding of the importance of promoting and protecting hospitality and tourism throughout our region and across the state.”
Jimmy Patronis is a fourth-generation Floridian from Panama City. He worked at Capt. Anderson’s, his family’s seafood restaurant. He holds an associate degree in restaurant management from Gulf Coast Community College and a bachelor's degree in political science from Florida State University. As CFO and State Fire Marshal, he has championed benefits for firefighters diagnosed with cancer and mental health services for first responders.
The FRLA is a non-profit trade association representing over 10,000 members within Florida's hospitality industry. It provides legislative advocacy, regulatory compliance training through Safe Staff and RCS Training, along with career-building programs via its Educational Foundation.