By Doug Stauffer
The Florida panhandle has a new reason to celebrate as one of its own, James Uthmeier, has assumed a very influential role in the state. Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Uthmeier as Chief of Staff in 2021 and has now tapped Uthmeier to succeed Ashley Moody as Florida’s Attorney General following Moody’s appointment to the U.S. Senate. This exciting development highlights Uthmeier’s impressive career and deep Florida roots, promising a bright future for the state under his leadership.
A proud native of Destin, Uthmeier’s journey began at Fort Walton Beach High School, where he cultivated the discipline and determination that have defined his career. As a University of Florida graduate, he earned academic accolades. He competed as part of the Florida Gators track and field team, helping to bring home a Southeastern Conference championship in 2010. His athletic and academic achievements earned him recognition as one of the University of Florida Alumni Association’s “40 Gators Under 40.”
Uthmeier’s rise to prominence in the Florida political arena has been swift and impactful. After earning his law degree from Georgetown University Law Center and serving as managing editor of the Georgetown Journal of Law and Public Policy, he began his legal career as an associate at the prestigious law firm Jones Day. Uthmeier then moved into public service, working as senior advisor and counsel to U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross during the Trump administration.
In 2019, Uthmeier returned to his home state to join Governor DeSantis’ legal team as Deputy General Counsel. His leadership skills quickly earned him a promotion to General Counsel in 2020 and Chief of Staff in 2021. In these roles, Uthmeier played a central part in shaping and implementing the governor’s agenda, including leading the state’s judicial nominations process and taking on some of Florida’s most significant legal battles.
Governor DeSantis praised Uthmeier as a “proven leader” who has been at the forefront of Florida’s fights for conservative values and constitutional principles. “James is someone who has consistently demonstrated his commitment to serving the people of Florida. He has big shoes to fill, but I am confident he is more than up to the task,” DeSantis said.
Uthmeier’s appointment as Attorney General comes at a pivotal time for Florida. His legal acumen and experience in both the state and federal government position him as a formidable advocate for Floridians. Whether tackling critical issues such as public safety, constitutional rights, or judicial integrity, Uthmeier is expected to bring the same passion and dedication that have defined his career.
He and his wife, Jean, have made Tallahassee their home, where they co-teach religious education classes and actively participate in their community. As James Uthmeier takes the helm as Florida’s Attorney General, Destin, and the entire Emerald Coast can take pride in the accomplishments of a hometown hero. His journey from the Panhandle to one of Florida’s highest offices serves as an inspiring reminder that with hard work and dedication, the sky is the limit. Uthmeier’s future—and Florida’s—is undeniably bright.
Views: 2
