Congressman Scott Franklin serves the citizens of Florida’s 15th Congressional District. He is a 20-year veteran in insurance and risk management, having led Lanier Upshaw in Lakeland, FL as President & CEO for 20 years before merging into BKS Partners on January 1, 2020, where he served as Managing Partner. He was elected to Congress in November, 2020 and was sworn in on January 3, 2021.
Scott’s first career was as a Naval Aviator, where he flew jets from the decks of 13 aircraft carriers during 26 years of service, including 14 years on active duty, followed by 12 years in the reserves. He had numerous deployments to the Mediterranean, Persian Gulf, and North Atlantic, and saw combat operations in the Gulf, Bosnia and Kosovo. He was recalled to active duty twice after 9/11 with U.S. Central Command.
As a businessman, I believe in lowering taxes, reducing wasteful spending and eliminating excessive regulations in order to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. As Florida and our nation continue to address the challenges of COVID-19, we must work to strengthen our economy and the businesses that have been devastated by this pandemic. As a former commissioner for the City of Lakeland, I opposed tax hikes and fought to cut wasteful government spending. As we continue to work on economic recovery, I will work to find areas to cut wasteful spending and excessive regulations that burden the small businesses that drive our economy.
Education is the key that unlocks endless opportunities in this nation. As we teach the next generation of leaders—doctors, nurses, teachers, scientists, and more—it is vital that we provide our youth with a quality education. I strongly support leaving educational decisions where they belong - at the local level, instead of a one-size-fits-all federal approach.
Our healthcare system works best when patients and doctors have the freedom to make the best choices for needed care. Sadly, when the federal government pushes one-size fits all approaches for healthcare, it reduces options, increases premiums, and hurts American's ability to receive timely and affordable care. Healthcare decisions are best made by you and your doctor, not by Congress and unelected bureaucrats in Washington.
As a veteran who served in the U.S. Navy for 26 years, I understand the challenges our veterans face. I am committed to passing legislation that serves the men and women who served this country. It is important that Congress works with the Department of Veterans Affairs – and holds the department accountable – to ensure that our veterans are receiving the best service.
Agriculture is an essential component of Florida's economy. Our farmers, growers, and ranchers not only feed the nation and the world; they also provide thousands of jobs that directly impact our local economy. When it comes to the environment, they are the state’s original stewards of our land. Florida’s farmers work hard to reduce their impact on the environment and protect our water resources by using Best Management Practices and implementing the latest technologies.
With our large military presence, Florida is a key contributor to our nation’s defense. As a veteran who served 26 years as a Naval Aviator, I am proud to serve our state on the House Armed Services Committee. I understand all too well the challenges facing our men and women in uniform, as well as what is required to complete the mission. I know the risks America faces every day from our enemies abroad. I will work hard to ensure our military has the tools needed to keep Americans safe.
As a gun owner and defender of the Constitution, I strongly believe in Americans’ right to own firearms. I will fight for, and defend, your Second Amendment rights as well as the entire Bill of Rights.
The First Amendment of the United States Constitution gives all Americans the right to practice his or her religion – or no religion – without persecution or oppression from the government. As a devout Christian, I will continue to fight for religious freedom for every American. I will also continue to support basic Judeo-Christian values such as protecting human life. Congress has a sacred duty to speak up for those who can’t speak for themselves. As a father and staunch defender of the unborn, I will continue every effort to defend life and speak on behalf of the voiceless.