Congressman Scott Franklin

Husband, father, and Navy veteran proudly representing Florida's 18th Congressional District.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

When emergencies happen, our first responders are the ones running toward the danger.

On National First Responders Day, we thank the police officers, firefighters, EMTs and other emergency personnel who put service before self to keep our communities safe!

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

If there’s one fictional account that captures the essence of Florida’s roots better than any other, it would undoubtedly (IMHO) be “A Land Remembered,” by Patrick D. Smith.

I met with Tampa native Todd Wiseman Jr., who is bringing Smith’s classic novel to the screen.  We discussed how much of it is being filmed right here in FL-18 and how the production will highlight Florida’s pioneer roots, cattlemen heritage and the people who helped build our state.  And as an added bonus, the actor who plays one of the starring roles is 12-year-old Colby Harrison from Wauchula.

I’m thrilled to see this Florida “Genesis” story being brought to life by Floridians in Florida, introducing many to a significant part of our state's history that too few know.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

Agriculture is a major part of Florida's economy, and FL-18 plays an important role in feeding families across our state and nation.

Our team joined the Highlands County Farm Bureau's annual meeting to connect with local producers and discuss our continued work to support Florida ag. I appreciate their recognition of our office's efforts on behalf of the industry and the communities that depend on it.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

The Medal of Honor represents the highest standard of courage, sacrifice and service to our nation.

The Second Annual Florida Medal of Honor Memorial Gala brought together military leaders, veterans and supporters, including retired U.S. Army Colonel Mike Borders and Brigadier General Hector E. Pagan, to recognize our nation's most distinguished military heroes. Preserving their legacies and ensuring future generations understand the sacrifices made in defense of our freedoms is an important mission.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

Lakeland continues to grow, and managing that growth responsibly while providing needed services to our existing residents in a fiscally responsible manner is no easy feat!

Our team had a great meeting with Mayor Sara Roberts McCarley to discuss what’s ahead for @lakelandgov and how we can continue working together to support local businesses, strengthen infrastructure and plan for the future.

Strong partnerships between local and federal leaders help us better serve residents and ensure FL-18 remains a great place to live, work and do business!

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

Florida Poly continues to put Central Florida at the forefront of emerging technology.

I met with @FLPolyU President Dr. Devin Stephenson and Vice President of Information Technology & CIO Cole Allen to discuss the university’s future and its growing work in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and other cutting-edge fields. We also got a firsthand look at Astro, Florida Poly’s new advanced air mobility police vehicle - the first eVTOL aircraft integrated into a law enforcement agency in the nation.

From the classroom to campus operations, Florida Poly is putting new technology into practice and preparing students to lead in the industries of tomorrow.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

Polk County is growing quickly, and making sure families can still afford to put down roots is an important part of that growth.

I appreciated the opportunity to speak with the Lakeland Association of Realtors about housing affordability, private property rights, infrastructure and the challenges facing homebuyers across our community. Realtors see these issues firsthand, and their perspective is valuable as we work to expand opportunity and keep FL-18 a great place to live, work and raise a family.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

Today on National Day of the Deployed, we recognize the service members carrying out our nation’s mission around the world and the families who support them from home.

We’re grateful for their sacrifice, courage and commitment to keeping America safe.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

BIG news for Polk County and American ag!

The Trump Administration has selected a Bartow fertilizer project for nearly $20 million to expand American-made fertilizer production.

I've long fought to strengthen domestic fertilizer production, most recently calling on @USDA and @CommerceGov to address supply challenges facing Florida's phosphate industry.

I appreciate this important investment in American agriculture supply. This is an important step forward for our farmers and local jobs, but our work isn’t finished. We must also bring sulfur costs down and keep fertilizer affordable for American farmers.

[Secretary Brooke Rollins @SecRollins]

More fertilizer MADE IN AMERICA. Lower costs for American farmers. 🇺🇸

Under @POTUS, @USDA has selected eight projects through our FIELDS program representing $1.34 BILLION in total investment to expand American fertilizer production.

✅ 22 manufacturing locations across 16 states.
✅ $73.1 MILLION recovered from failed Biden-era projects and redirected to domestic manufacturing.
✅ Nearly 40% more American potash production projected once projects are operational.
✅ Expanded supply expected to drive fertilizer prices DOWN.

Thank you to @VP for championing American fertilizer production and our farmers.

Less dependence on foreign suppliers. More production here at home. FARMERS FIRST.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

It’s always a pleasure catching up with State Senator Colleen Burton to talk about what's happening across Polk County.

From infrastructure and water resources to housing and economic development, decisions made at the local, state and federal levels all play a role in how our communities manage growth. It's important that we're working alongside local leaders to understand these challenges and address the needs of the communities we represent.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

Lakeland Linder International Airport continues to be a hub for aviation, innovation and education in Central Florida.

I toured the Aerospace Center for Excellence to hear about preparations for SUN ’n FUN 2027, ongoing airport projects and efforts to introduce more students to aviation careers.

Through STEM programs, scholarships and flight training, ACE is helping prepare the next generation of pilots, mechanics and aerospace professionals right here in FL-18.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

For students interested in aviation and aerospace, the Central Florida Aerospace Academy in Lakeland offers opportunities that go well beyond the traditional classroom.

I toured CFAA to learn how students are gaining hands-on experience in flight training, aircraft maintenance, drones, engineering and more. From specialized coursework to Air Force JROTC, students are developing technical skills, leadership and a foundation for future careers in aviation and aerospace.

It's great to see @PolkSchoolsNews providing students with these unique, hands-on learning opportunities and helping prepare the next generation of aviation and aerospace professionals.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

From autonomous vehicles to advanced air mobility, SunTrax is helping test the next generation of transportation technology.

I enjoyed catching up with the @MyFDOT team to hear about the latest developments at the facility and how its testing capabilities are helping companies and researchers bring new technologies closer to real-world use.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

Ever wonder how your favorite @Publix ice cream gets made?

We toured the Publix dairy plant in Lakeland, where milk, tea, ice cream and other products are prepared for stores across the Southeast. Since opening in 1980, the facility has been a longstanding part of Polk County’s manufacturing community.

And of course, we couldn't leave without sampling some fresh ice cream!

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

Bok Tower Gardens has been a Lake Wales landmark for nearly a century, welcoming visitors from around the world and playing an important role in our local tourism economy.

I enjoyed spending time at @boktower with President and CEO Miles Arnott, as well as carillonneur Geert D’hollander and getting a closer look at the work that goes into maintaining and preserving this National Historic Landmark. Since opening in 1929, Bok Tower Gardens has carried on Edward Bok’s vision of leaving the world a little better and more beautiful than we found it. That legacy remains an important part of what makes Lake Wales such a special place to visit.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

Some of the world’s most important weather missions launch from right here in Lakeland.

The @NOAA_HurrHunter Aircraft Operations Center at Lakeland Linder International Airport is home base for @NOAA’s specialized aircraft fleet. From flying into hurricanes to conducting atmospheric research around the world, the crews and scientists based here collect critical data that helps protect lives and improve forecasts.

As Chairman of the House Science Committee’s Environment Subcommittee, which oversees NOAA, I always appreciate the opportunity to connect with the dedicated men and women behind these missions and learn more about their ongoing work to improve forecasting and keep Americans safe.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

Innovation is happening right here in Lakeland.

I had the chance to visit Catapult and see how local entrepreneurs are turning ideas into growing businesses. From its workspace and commercial kitchen to its makerspace for manufacturing and engineering, Catapult gives founders the tools, mentorship and resources they need to start, scale and create new opportunities in our community.

It’s encouraging to see this kind of entrepreneurship taking root in FL-18.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

Hardworking Americans shouldn't be footing the bill for fraudsters exploiting taxpayer-funded programs. Every dollar lost to fraud hurts taxpayers and those who genuinely need assistance.

I'm joining @VP in his pledge to stop fraudulent payments, strengthen oversight and hold bad actors accountable. Taxpayer dollars aren't a blank check.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

Congratulations to Dr. Alice Beth Barfield on representing Glades County at the National Association of School Superintendents’ celebration of education leaders from across the country.

Being named a finalist for the 2026 NASS Superintendent of the Year is a well-deserved recognition of her commitment to improving student achievement, expanding educational opportunities and serving the students and families of Glades County.

[Congressman Scott Franklin @RepFranklin]

Florida’s National Guard answers the call at home and abroad, from hurricane response to overseas deployments, but its force structure has not kept pace with our state’s rapid growth or increasing mission demands.

I joined @SenAshleyMoody and members of Florida’s congressional delegation in calling for an increase in the Guard’s authorized force structure. Florida’s soldiers and airmen continue to deliver when our state and nation need them, and they deserve the personnel and resources necessary to carry out the mission and meet Florida’s growing needs. Read the letter here 👇
https://t.co/ARLV0kgtop