Ben Butler

Ben Butler earned a high school diploma from Okeechobee High School. Butler earned an M.D. from the University of Florida. Butler's career experience includes working as a farmer and small business owner.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Ben Butler is a lifelong, ninth-generation Floridian, agricultural leader, businessman, and public servant rooted in the values of faith, hard work, stewardship, and service.

Raised in Central Florida, Ben helped build and operate Butler Oaks Farm, a multi-generational dairy and cattle operation. Through decades of hands-on experience, he managed employees, balanced budgets, navigated regulations, and made the decisions necessary to keep a business running and families employed.

Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Ben as a member of the South Florida Water Management District, Governing Board, in 2019, 2021, and 2024, where he has helped oversee Everglades restoration, flood protection, water supply, and natural resource management.

Ben has also served in leadership roles with the Florida Farm Bureau, Florida FFA Foundation, Southeast Milk Inc., and Newtrient. A former Florida FFA State President, he has spent much of his life advocating for agriculture and rural communities.

He earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Animal Science from the University of Florida.

Ben and his wife, April, a native Floridian and former law enforcement professional, are raising their daughter Hannah in Florida’s agricultural tradition. The Butler family remains deeply rooted in Florida’s Heartland and committed to preserving Florida’s agricultural heritage, supporting future generations, and serving their community.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Affordability First: Florida families are working harder than ever but finding it more difficult to get ahead. Housing costs, insurance premiums, groceries, fuel, and everyday expenses continue to rise while Washington spends trillions and fuels inflation. As a farmer and small business owner, I understand what it means to balance a budget and live within your means. In Congress, I will fight to rein in reckless spending, support policies that lower costs for families, protect taxpayers, and restore economic opportunity so the next generation can afford to build a future in Florida.Responsible Growth & Protecting Florida’s Future: Florida is growing rapidly, but growth must be managed responsibly. As a member of the South Florida Water Management District, Governing Board, I have worked to protect our water resources, improve infrastructure, support Everglades restoration, and ensure Florida can meet the needs of future generations. We can welcome new opportunities while preserving the communities, agricultural lands, and natural resources that make Florida special. I will work to strengthen infrastructure, improve water management, support rural communities, and ensure growth benefits Florida families rather than burdening them.Bringing Real-World Experience to Washington: Washington has too many career politicians and not enough people who have signed the front of a paycheck, run a business, or produced something Americans depend on every day. As a ninth-generation Floridian, dairy farmer, cattle rancher, and businessman, I bring real-world experience and a results-oriented mindset. I will fight to secure our border, support law enforcement, defend the Second Amendment, protect the unborn, strengthen America’s food security, support our veterans, and restore accountability in government. Florida deserves a representative who understands the challenges facing working families because he lives them every day.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am most passionate about affordability, agriculture and food security, responsible growth, and government accountability. As a ninth-generation Floridian, dairy farmer, and cattle rancher, I understand the challenges families and small businesses face from rising costs and burdensome regulations. I believe America must maintain a strong domestic food supply and support the farmers and ranchers who help feed our nation. Through my service on the South Florida Water Management District, Governing Board, I have worked to protect water resources and plan for Florida’s future growth. I am committed to bringing practical, real-world experience to Congress and ensuring rural Florida has a strong voice in Washington.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

My campaign has earned the support of conservative leaders, law enforcement officials, and local elected officials across Florida. I am honored to be endorsed by Kat Cammack and Greg Steube, both of whom have highlighted my commitment to conservative principles, agriculture, and advancing President Trump’s agenda. I have also been endorsed by Highlands County Sheriff Paul Blackman, Glades County Sheriff David Hardin, Okeechobee County Sheriff Noel Stephen, and Indian River County Sheriff Eric Flowers, along with numerous county commissioners, school board members, and local leaders throughout Florida’s Heartland. These endorsements reflect broad support from those who know my record of service, leadership, and commitment to our communities.