Union Leader and Navy Veteran Brian Nathan Emerges as Democrats’ Choice to Replace Collins in Senate

Tampa, Florida – Union leader and Navy veteran Brian Nathan has quickly emerged as the leading contender to reclaim Florida Senate District 14 in the wake of Jay Collins’ appointment as Lieutenant Governor. Widely respected for his decades of service, both in uniform and on the job site, Nathan’s candidacy is energizing voters and community leaders across the state. Supporters say his record of fighting for working families, coupled with his deep roots in Tampa, makes him a formidable contender in a race that could flip the seat back to Democrats.

A win in District 14 would carry stakes far beyond the Tampa Bay area. Flipping this seat would bring Democrats one step closer to breaking the Republican supermajority in the Florida Senate, restoring balance and opening the door for real debate on the issues that matter most to Floridians. Nathan’s mix of military service, union leadership, and deep community connections has positioned him as the candidate who can unite working families, young voters, and independents in a coalition strong enough to deliver that change.

About the Vacancy

Senator Jay Collins, representing District 14—which covers western Hillsborough County—resigned from office on August 12, 2025, following his appointment by Governor DeSantis as lieutenant governor. Collins was sworn in during a Tampa news conference, ending weeks of speculation and triggering a special election to fill the now-vacant seat.

Brian Nathan’s Record of Service

Brian Nathan is a Navy veteran and active leader within the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). For over sixteen years he and his wife Tonia have made Tampa their home. He has served as an electrician, foreman, and union organizer. Nathan has been a member of his union for nearly ten years and joined the leadership of IBEW Local 915 in 2022, advocating tirelessly for safer work conditions, fair compensation, and inclusive training for all workers.

Nathan’s campaign brings a message of grounded, working-class leadership at a time when District 14 families face rising rents, stagnant wages, and uncertainty about their futures.

“I put on the uniform and served this country, and I’ve been working as an electrician and IBEW member for years,” Nathan said. “I know what it’s like to work for a living and worry about making ends meet. Too many politicians in Tallahassee have never gotten their hands dirty or missed a paycheck. I’m running because working families need someone who understands and will fight for them. It’s time to demand decent wages, take care of our veterans, and quit playing games with people’s lives. Florida deserves better and I’m ready to get to work.”

“I’m running because working families need someone who understands and will fight for them.”

Issues and Priorities

Nathan’s platform includes good-paying jobs with strong labor protections, affordable housing to ensure Floridians can live where they work, and quality education to prepare every child for success.

Filing and Campaign Launch

Nathan officially filed his candidacy on August 12, 2025, paving the way for a competitive special election. His campaign is actively organizing across Florida, hosting community meetings, and building a grassroots coalition to take this fight to Tallahassee. Voters can learn more about Nathan’s background, priorities, and how to get involved at www.BrianForFL.com.

###

Media Contact

Nick Biscardi
Campaign Manager
Nick@BrianForFL.com
(813) 586-0632

Political advertisement paid for and approved by Brian Nathan, Democrat, for State Senate District 14.

PRESS INQUIRIES: