A Bright New Chapter: Dr. Ralph Massullo Announces Run for Florida Senate

I’m excited to join so many others in celebrating the news that Dr. Ralph Massullo has officially announced his candidacy for the Florida Senate, District 11. This seat, currently held by Senator Blaise Ingoglia, will be open as Senator Ingoglia steps into his new role as Florida’s next Chief Financial Officer, appointed today by Governor Ron DeSantis.

This announcement marks a significant and hopeful moment—not only for Citrus County but for the entire state of Florida. Dr. Massullo’s dedication, leadership, and service in the Florida House have left a profound and lasting impact, particularly in the area of public education.

As Chairman of the House Education & Employment Committee, Dr. Massullo has been a tireless advocate for students, families, and educators. His leadership helped usher in bold reforms that expanded career and technical education, strengthened individualized learning pathways, and ensured that every student—regardless of circumstance—had the opportunity to succeed. One of his most impactful achievements came during the 2023 legislative session, when he championed a critical policy that allowed thousands of at-risk students across Florida to graduate high school by preserving alternative assessment options.

Dr. Massullo’s advocacy has extended well beyond policy. He has secured direct funding for workforce training programs, including the establishment of the Citrus High School Construction Academy and the expansion of the Academy of Health Careers at Crystal River High School. His belief in hands-on, real-world learning experiences has helped shape a future-ready generation of students and positioned our schools as leaders in workforce readiness.

In recognition of his steadfast support of public education, the Florida School Boards Association named Dr. Massullo its 2023 “Friend of Education”—one of the highest honors FSBA can bestow on a legislator. His contributions to education are complemented by his broader service on the powerful Appropriations Committee and the Health & Human Services Committee, where he has brought valuable insight as both a physician and a successful small business owner.

What sets Dr. Massullo apart isn’t just his legislative résumé—it’s his unwavering commitment to listening, problem-solving, and leading with humility and integrity. He actively engages with superintendents, school board members, and community leaders across the state, ensuring that legislation reflects the real needs and voices of those it affects most.

I look forward to the day I can call him Senator Massullo. But more than that, I’m grateful to always be able to call him my friend. His work has already brightened Florida’s future—and I have no doubt that this next chapter will be even more impactful.

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