Rick Scott has represented Florida in the U.S. Senate since 2019, after serving two terms as Governor (2011–2019). He’s built his identity around relentless fiscal conservatism: cutting spending, slashing regulations, and pitching himself as the guy who will “make Washington live within its means.”
In the Senate, he rolled out his high-profile “Rescue America” agenda — a sweeping hardline platform focused on federal spending cuts, term limits, work requirements, and reshaping safety net programs. That plan made him a hero to the party’s anti-spending wing and a headache for leadership.
He’s also been loud on border security, crime, veterans’ benefits, and disaster relief for Florida — especially after hurricanes. His 2024 re-election win by double digits hardened his status as one of Florida’s dominant Republicans.
Right Wing Populist
Achievements
- Released the “Rescue America” plan, a national conservative blueprint focused on cutting federal spending and reshaping entitlement programs
- Secured disaster recovery and hurricane relief funds for Florida communities
- Backed large-scale infrastructure and port expansion efforts important to Florida’s logistics and tourism economy
- Pushed veterans’ care, including mental health resources and benefits modernization
- Championed stricter border and immigration enforcement measures
Controversies
- Hammered by Democrats (and some Republicans) for proposals seen as risking Medicare and Social Security
- Long-running baggage from his time as a healthcare executive, including a record-setting Medicare fraud settlement tied to HCA while he was CEO
- Accused of prioritizing national ambitions and messaging over bipartisan dealmaking
- Clashed with GOP Senate leadership over strategy, spending, and candidate recruitment
- Criticized by Florida Democrats for positions on abortion, voting access, and gun policy
Top Donors
| Donor | Total | Individuals | PACs |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Israel Public Affairs Cmte | $269,235 | $254,235 | $15,000 |
| Senate Conservatives Fund | $216,561 | $206,561 | $10,000 |
| The Villages | $146,965 | $146,965 | $0 |
| Club for Growth | $97,019 | $97,019 | $0 |
| GEO Group | $66,900 | $66,900 | $0 |
Amounts shown reflect organization-linked giving; most funds listed here are from individual donors or aligned PACs.
Recent Elections
2018 Margin R +0.1%
2024 Margin R +12.8%