Joe Saunders

Joe Saunders is an American community activist and politician who served as a Democratic member of the Florida House of Representatives from 2012 to 2014, representing District 49.12 Here are some key details about Joe Saunders:

Background and Education

• Born on April 12, 1983 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida1
• Graduated from the University of Central Florida in 2005 with a degree in political science12

Political Career

• Elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2012, representing District 49 which included northern Orange County and the main campus of the University of Central Florida1
• Served as Democratic Deputy Whip from 2012-20142
• Along with David Richardson, became one of the first openly gay members of the Florida state legislature1
• Focused on issues like public education, early childhood education, and LGBTQ rights1
• Lost his re-election bid in 2014 in a narrow defeat to Republican Rene Plasencia1

Other Professional Experience

• Worked as a field organizer and held senior positions at Equality Florida, an LGBTQ rights organization, from 2005-20151
• Joined the Human Rights Campaign as Southern Regional Field Director in 2014 after leaving office1
• Currently serves as the Senior Political Director of Equality Florida1

Current Political Activity

• Running as the Democratic candidate for Florida House of Representatives District 106 in the 2024 election3

Joe Saunders has been recognized for his work in education policy and LGBTQ advocacy throughout his career. He continues to be active in Florida politics and community organizing.