Managing a successful business calls for hard work and dedication. However, regardless of your dedication and hard work, your company’s bottom line can be decimated by lawmakers who lack a pro-business attitude. Through Associated Industries of Florida (AIF), you can join other business people to promote our American legacy of free enterprise and economic prosperity.

In 1993, AIF expanded its political operations program by intensifying its involvement in House and Senate campaigns in order to shape the make-up, direction, and philosophy of the Florida Legislature. Since the 1994 elections, more than 90 percent of the candidates supported by AIF’s political operations division have won their races. This success is assured through the actions of AIF's Political Council – the AIF research, analysis and education arm. The efforts of the Political Council coupled with the contributions made by the AIF Political Action Committee (AIFPAC) and AIF members have made AIF’s political operations a formidable power in Florida politics.

The 1992 constitutional amendment that limited legislative terms to eight years made it imperative that our political efforts continue year-round. As a result of term limits the business community can no longer assume there are safe “business-friendly” seats in Florida. Many times experienced pro-business legislators are replaced by less experienced lawmakers making our political operations efforts even more important to the business community. As a result, we continually provide important research, analysis, and assessment of all legislative districts within the state.

AIF Political Operations Objectives:

• To identify, recruit, and support candidates for the Florida Legislature who understand and advocate public policies that promote a business friendly atmosphere in the state of Florida.

• To oppose candidates who, by their actions, words, and voting records indicate they are or will be anti-business policymakers if elected or reelected.

• To collect and analyze data that increases the understanding among the business community of Florida’s political climate.

• To educate employers and business owners on the policymakers and issues that shape Florida politics.

Coordinating Business for Florida's Political Future

For more information about AIF's political operations and to experience the benefits of being a Political Council member, please contact Ryan Tyson, Vice President - Political Operations,
at (850) 224-7173 or email him at rtyson@aif.com