Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson Raises $33 Million, Names New Water Policy Leaders

Incumbent Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson has collected about $33 million across four political action committees, including $4.1 million in contributions from sugar growers, ranchers, supermarkets, lobbyists and other donors. Opponents in the race have roughly $40,000 on hand. Florida campaign‑finance rules allow unlimited corporate donations to candidate‑controlled committees, a practice watchdogs say creates the appearance of pay‑to‑play.

Simpson also announced staffing changes at the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Jessica Ferris has been appointed to head the Office of Agricultural Water Policy, and Megan Seward will remain as assistant director. Ferris previously served as staff director for the office and has overseen statewide agricultural water‑quality initiatives, while Seward brings experience from Citizens Property Insurance Corp. and state water‑management agencies. The office works with farmers and water‑management districts to develop voluntary, science‑based conservation programs.