Gov. Ron DeSantis on Wednesday appointed state Sen. Blaise Ingoglia as Florida’s chief financial officer, filling the position left vacant in March when former CFO Jimmy Patronis resigned after being elected to Congress.
Ingoglia has represented Senate District 11 since 2022 and previously served in the Florida House from 2014 to 2022. He chaired the Republican Party of Florida from 2015 to 2019.
At a press conference in Tampa, DeSantis said Ingoglia would focus on strengthening oversight of government spending, supporting first responders, and promoting fiscal accountability. Ingoglia said his immediate priorities include property tax relief, improvements to firefighter benefits, and increased scrutiny of insurance companies operating in the state.
“Florida deserves a Chief Financial Officer who brings strong fiscal discipline, a focus on delivering tax relief, and a commitment to the priorities Floridians have expressed in recent elections,” Gov. DeSantis said. “Blaise Ingoglia has consistently championed these priorities throughout his career in business and public service, while also standing firmly in support of our law enforcement and first responders, 2A rights, parents’ rights in education, and Florida’s efforts to facilitate the enforcement of immigration law. That’s why I chose the most conservative member of the Florida senate, Blaise Ingoglia, to serve as Florida’s new CFO. He will help us keep Florida’s momentum going.”
The CFO is an independently elected member of Florida’s Cabinet. The role includes managing state finances, regulating insurance and financial services, and directing the Division of State Fire Marshal. Ingoglia is expected to resign from the Senate later this week.
Thank you [Gov. Ron DeSantis] for putting your faith in me!” Sen. Ingoglia said. “The State of Florida is flourishing under your leadership! I look forward to serving with you, [Attorney General James Uthmeier] and [Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson] on Florida’s cabinet!”
Ingoglia’s appointment drew praise from political groups across the state, including Americans For Prosperity-Florida (AFP-F)
“Governor Ron DeSantis has made a strong choice in appointing Senator Blaise Ingoglia as Florida’s next Chief Financial Officer,” said AFP-F State Director Skylar Zander. “Throughout his time in the Legislature, Senator Ingoglia has proven to be a principled leader and a reliable advocate for economic freedom, limited government, and fiscal responsibility. From expanding occupational mobility and reforming housing permitting to helping stop rising insurance costs, Senator Ingoglia has consistently advanced policies that remove barriers and create more opportunities for Floridians. We are confident he will bring that same results-driven mindset to the CFO’s office, and we look forward to working together to continue building a more prosperous Florida.”
