Hilary Holley

Hilary Holley is an American politician affiliated with the Republican Party, currently serving as a member of the Florida House of Representatives for District 51. She has been in office since March 2026, following her election in a special election. Holley has a background in agricultural education and communications, which informs her legislative focus and community engagement. In addition to her role in the state legislature, she has been the executive director of the Florida FFA Foundation since March 2021, where she contributes to the development of future leaders in agriculture.

Early life and career

Hilary Holley was born on February 6, 1989, in Punta Gorda, Florida. Growing up in a state known for its agricultural diversity, Holley developed an early interest in the agricultural sector, which would later shape her educational and professional pursuits. She attended Santa Fe College, where she earned an Associate of Arts degree, laying the groundwork for her further studies. Holley then transferred to the University of Florida, where she completed a Bachelor of Science degree in agricultural education and communications. This educational background equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of agricultural policies and communication strategies.

Following her academic achievements, Holley began her professional career in public service and agriculture. She served as a legislative aide for State Senator Denise Grimsley, where she gained firsthand experience in the legislative process and the intricacies of state governance. This role allowed her to understand the needs and concerns of her constituents while also developing her skills in policy analysis and advocacy. Holley later took on the position of education coordinator for Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam H. Putnam. In this capacity, she worked on initiatives aimed at enhancing agricultural education and promoting the importance of agriculture within the state.

Holley's career continued to evolve as she joined the office of Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis. In this role, she further expanded her understanding of financial policies and their impact on the agricultural sector and the broader economy. These experiences provided her with a comprehensive view of the intersection between agriculture, education, and finance, which would later inform her legislative priorities.

Legislative service

In March 2026, Hilary Holley entered the political arena by running in a special election for the Florida House of Representatives, representing District 51. This election was necessitated by the resignation of the incumbent Republican, Josie Tomkow, who chose to pursue a seat in the State Senate. Holley was the only Republican candidate to file for the position, which positioned her favorably in the race. Her campaign was marked by significant fundraising efforts, as she out-raised her opponent, Edwin Pérez, a Democrat, by a substantial margin. Holley's campaign garnered approximately $122,000 in donations and nearly $134,000 in in-kind contributions, reflecting strong support from her party and constituents.

In the general election, Holley secured her position in the Florida House of Representatives by winning 54.2% of the vote against Pérez, who received over $13,000 in donations and additional financial support through personal loans and in-kind contributions. Holley's victory in this special election marked the beginning of her legislative career, where she would have the opportunity to influence policies affecting her district and the state of Florida.

Since taking office, Holley has been involved in various legislative initiatives and discussions, contributing her expertise in agriculture and education to the policymaking process. Her background as an education coordinator and legislative aide has likely informed her approach to addressing the needs of her constituents, particularly in areas related to agricultural education and economic development.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Florida House of Representatives, Hilary Holley represents District 51, which encompasses a diverse range of communities and interests. Her legislative focus is heavily influenced by her background in agricultural education and her commitment to supporting the agricultural sector in Florida. Holley’s role as the executive director of the Florida FFA Foundation further underscores her dedication to fostering leadership and educational opportunities for young people in agriculture.

In her capacity as a legislator, Holley is likely to prioritize policies that enhance agricultural education, promote sustainable farming practices, and support the economic viability of the agricultural industry in Florida. Given the state's significant agricultural output, her efforts may include advocating for funding and resources that benefit local farmers, ranchers, and agricultural businesses. Holley's experience in the agricultural sector positions her as a knowledgeable advocate for policies that can positively impact the livelihoods of those working in this vital industry.

Additionally, Holley's legislative work may address broader issues affecting her district, including economic development, education, and community engagement. By leveraging her background and experiences, she aims to create a positive impact on the lives of her constituents. Her commitment to public service and community involvement reflects a desire to ensure that the voices of those she represents are heard in the legislative process.

Holley's personal life also intersects with her professional interests. She resides on a ranch in Polk City, Florida, with her husband, who serves as the executive vice president of the Florida Cattlemen's Association. Together, they are raising two children, which adds a personal dimension to her understanding of family and community values. This connection to the agricultural community not only informs her policy priorities but also reinforces her commitment to the future of Florida's agricultural landscape.

In summary, Hilary Holley is a dedicated public servant with a strong background in agricultural education and a commitment to her constituents in Florida's District 51. Her legislative service, informed by her professional experiences and personal ties to the agricultural community, positions her as an advocate for policies that support education, economic development, and the agricultural sector in Florida. As she continues her work in the Florida House of Representatives, Holley remains focused on addressing the needs of her district while fostering a sustainable future for agriculture in the state.