Scott Franklin is the U.S. Representative for Florida’s 18th Congressional District, serving since January 3, 2023. A member of the Republican Party, Franklin has a diverse background in military service, business, and local government.
Scott Franklin’s Career Path to Congress
Military Service: Franklin graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1986, embarking on a 26-year career as a Naval Aviator. He flew jets from 13 aircraft carriers, with deployments to the Mediterranean, Persian Gulf, and North Atlantic, participating in combat operations in the Gulf, Bosnia, and Kosovo. Following the September 11 attacks, he was recalled to active duty twice with U.S. Central Command. He retired with the rank of Commander.
Business Career: After his military service, Franklin entered the insurance and risk management industry. He led Lanier Upshaw in Lakeland, Florida, as President and CEO for 20 years before merging it into BKS Partners on January 1, 2020, where he served as Managing Partner.
Local Government: In 2017, Franklin was elected as a city commissioner for the Southeast district of Lakeland, Florida, succeeding longtime incumbent Edie Yates. He served in this role until January 3, 2021, when he resigned to assume his congressional seat.
Congressional Career: Franklin was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2020, representing Florida’s 15th Congressional District. Following redistricting, he has represented the 18th District since 2023. He was re-elected in 2024, defeating Democratic challenger Andrea Doria Kale with 65.3% of the vote.
Scott Franklin’s Sponsored Legislation
As of the 119th Congress (2025-2026), Franklin has sponsored 34 pieces of legislation. His legislative efforts have focused on a range of issues, including agriculture, arms control, aviation, environment, and taxation.
Scott Franklin’s Votes and Stances on Social Issues
Veterans Affairs: Franklin voted against the PACT Act, which aimed to expand VA benefits to veterans exposed to toxic chemicals during their military service.
Cannabis Legislation: Franklin voted against the 2022 Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act, which sought to decriminalize cannabis at the federal level.
Scott Franklin’ Votes and Stances on Taxes and Business
Economic Policy: Franklin advocates for lowering taxes, reducing wasteful spending, and eliminating excessive regulations to stimulate economic growth. As a former city commissioner, he opposed tax hikes and worked to cut unnecessary government spending. In Congress, he continues to focus on cutting wasteful spending and reducing regulatory burdens on small businesses.
Demographic Data of Florida’s 18th Congressional District
As of 2022, Florida’s 18th Congressional District has a population of approximately 780,642 residents. Key demographic statistics include:
Median Age: 40.8 years
Median Household Income: $56,464
Poverty Rate: 16.8%
Ethnic Composition:
White (Non-Hispanic): 54.6%
Black or African American (Non-Hispanic): 13%
White (Hispanic): 11.9%
Other (Hispanic): 8.27%
Two or More Races (Hispanic): 6.87%
Language: 25.8% of households report speaking a non-English language at home.
Citizenship: 93.2% of residents are U.S. citizens.
Homeownership Rate: 71.3%
Median Property Value: $185,200
Scott Franklin’ Controversial Statements
During his 2020 congressional campaign, Franklin faced criticism for comments regarding Social Security. He was quoted as saying that Social Security “was never meant for people to retire and live another 30 years or so just off the government dole.” This remark was perceived by some as showing contempt for seniors relying on Social Security, a significant concern in a district with a substantial elderly population.
DCCC
Franklin’s diverse background in military service, business leadership, and local governance informs his legislative priorities and policy positions in Congress.