Rob Long

Rob Long is a Democratic politician currently serving as a member of the Florida House of Representatives, representing the 90th district. He has been in office since 2025 and has a background in civil engineering and business administration. Long's political career began with local elections, where he focused on environmental issues and community service, eventually leading to his election to the state legislature.

Early life and career

Rob Long was born on January 13, 1985, in Gaithersburg, Maryland. His early education laid the groundwork for his future career in both engineering and politics. Long pursued higher education at Pennsylvania State University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in civil engineering in 2008. This educational background provided him with a strong foundation in technical and analytical skills, which have been beneficial in his subsequent political endeavors.

In 2008, shortly after completing his undergraduate studies, Long relocated to Florida. This move marked a significant transition in his life and career. He continued his education at the University of Florida, where he obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in 2010. This advanced degree equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary for understanding complex business and economic issues, which would later inform his policy decisions as a legislator.

Long's initial foray into politics occurred in 2016 when he ran for a position on the Palm Beach County Soil and Water Conservation District in Group 4. He faced incumbent Supervisor Dave Self and Libertarian candidate Karl Dickey in this election. During the campaign, various political action committees supported Dickey, which added a competitive edge to the race. Long successfully won the election, securing 48 percent of the vote, while Dickey received 33 percent and Self garnered 19 percent. This victory marked the beginning of Long's political career and demonstrated his ability to connect with voters on environmental issues.

In 2020, Long sought re-election to the Soil and Water Conservation District, facing businesswoman Candace Rojas. His campaign was successful once again, as he won with 54 percent of the vote compared to Rojas's 46 percent. Throughout his tenure on the Soil and Water Conservation District, Long was involved in discussions surrounding environmental conservation and water quality, which are critical issues in Florida. His role on the Delray Beach Planning and Zoning Board also allowed him to engage with local governance, although he faced criticism from the City Commission for voicing concerns about the city's water quality. Despite the potential for removal from the Board due to his comments, he remained in his position, reflecting his commitment to advocating for environmental issues.

In 2023, Long expanded his political ambitions by running for the Delray Beach City Commission. He challenged incumbent City Commissioner Juli Casale in this election. Long's campaign was successful, as he narrowly defeated Casale, winning 53 percent of the vote to her 47 percent. This victory further solidified his presence in local politics and demonstrated his ability to mobilize support within the community.

Legislative service

Long's entry into the Florida House of Representatives came in 2025 when he announced his candidacy to succeed Democratic State Representative Joseph Casello in the 90th district. His announcement was made on February 11, 2025, and he received Casello's endorsement, which was significant given Casello's established presence in the district. The political landscape changed dramatically when Casello passed away on July 18, 2025, leading to a special election to fill the vacancy.

In the wake of Casello's death, Long garnered support from the local Democratic Party establishment, which recognized his potential to continue the work of his predecessor. He won the Democratic nomination unopposed, reflecting his strong standing within the party and the community. This unopposed nomination indicated a consensus among local Democrats regarding Long's capabilities and vision for the district.

In the general election, Long faced Republican nominee Maria Zack, who was a lobbyist and had gained attention for her controversial views, as well as independent candidate Karen Yeh. Long's campaign was marked by a focus on community issues and a commitment to representing the interests of his constituents. He won the election decisively, receiving 63 percent of the vote compared to Zack's 36 percent and Yeh's 1 percent. This victory not only secured his position in the Florida House of Representatives but also underscored his ability to appeal to a broad electorate.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Florida House of Representatives, Long represents the 90th district, which encompasses parts of Palm Beach County. His policy focus reflects his background in engineering and business, as well as his commitment to environmental issues. Long's experience on the Soil and Water Conservation District and the Delray Beach Planning and Zoning Board has shaped his understanding of local governance and the importance of sustainable practices.

In the legislature, Long is likely to prioritize issues related to environmental conservation, water quality, and community development. His previous roles have provided him with insights into the challenges faced by local governments, particularly in areas related to infrastructure and environmental sustainability. Long's educational background in civil engineering may influence his approach to legislative matters concerning public works and environmental regulations.

Additionally, Long's commitment to community engagement and responsiveness to constituent concerns is expected to guide his legislative priorities. His electoral successes indicate a strong connection with the voters in his district, and he may focus on initiatives that directly impact their quality of life. As he continues his service in the Florida House of Representatives, Long's background and experiences will likely inform his contributions to the legislative process and his efforts to address the needs of the 90th district.