Movers and Shakers

David Altmaier Florida Insurance Commissioner David Altmaier has resigned, effective December 28th, after completing the most recent special session on property insurance. He was appointed Commissioner in 2008 by former governor Rick Scott.

Romero Britto World-renowned artist Romero Britto was selected to become the “Special Ambassador” for Miami-Dade County to represent its trade and cultural interests. He will become the second ambassador since the program began in 2016. The unpaid position has been vacant for more than five years and is a symbolic representation of good will, ideas and understanding.

Tracy Cantella Senate President Passidomo appointed Tracy Cantella as Secretary of the Senate. She replaces Debbie Brown who retired at the end of the 2022 legislative session.

Bev DeMello After 35 years of service, Bev DeMello will be leaving the Florida Public Service Commission. DeMello will retire from her position as assistant director of consumer assistance and outreach.

Democratic Leadership Democratic House Leader Fentrice Driskell (D-Tampa) has named her minority deputy whips for the 2022-24 legislative term. They are: Representative Kristen Arrington (D-Kissimmee); Representative Christopher Benjamin (D-Miami-Gardens) Representative Michele Rayner-Goolsby (D-St. Petersburg); Representative Allison Tant (D- Tallahassee); and Representative Marie Paule Woodson (D-Hollywood). Driskell has also named the Minority Ranking Members to the House committees.

Dane Eagle Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Secretary Dane Eagle has resigned. He was appointed by Governor DeSantis in September, 2020.

Joe Harding Representative Joe Harding (R-Ocala) resigned from office on December 8th. This follows a federal grand jury indictment accusing him of fraud in applying for $150,000 in pandemic relief money.

Bob Iger The Walt Disney Company has replaced CEO Bob Chapek with former Disney CEO Bob Iger. Iger will hold the position for two years while assisting the board in finding a permanent replacement. Iger previously served as Disney CEO for fifteen years before his contract expired in 2020.

Christopher Phillip Kimball Nameddirector of the state’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use at the Florida Department of Health was Christopher Phillip Kimball. Kimball comes to the position from the Agency for Health Care Administration and replaces Chris Ferguson.

Simone Marstiller Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Simone Marstiller is leaving. She was appointed by Governor DeSantis in February, 2021.

Terry Rhodes Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Director Terry Rhodes resigned. She was appointed by former governor Rick Scott in May, 2014.