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Secretary Ken Lawson Gives Keynote Speech

Florida Chamber of Commerce

It’s been one month since Governor Ron DeSantis chose Ken Lawson to lead the Department of Economic Opportunity. Lawson gave the Florida Chamber of Commerce an update Monday on his new job.

Lawson says he looks forward to helping the new governor reach his goals.

“He said this, that he seizes to promote a virtuous cycle whereby low taxes a reasonable regulatory climate attracts jobs business and investment." Lawson continued saying, "you know in standing on the foundation of the governors’ words I hope that as one of his agents that I’m able to help Florida reach these goals in my new role as the head of the department of economic opportunity.”

One of the main functions of DEO is making sure Florida’s economy grows. Lawson says he wants Florida to become the number one destination for innovation and business.

“See here in Florida when we look at the number of active Floridians who need a job and seeking a job were at an all-time low because back in November 2018 we had an unemployment rate of 3.3 percent that’s wonderful. You know looking at the 10 most populous states in this country we rank number 1. We need to give ourselves a hand for that as Florida right? In the last 12 years this is Florida’s lowest unemployment rate,” Lawson said.

Lawson says he is also focused on making sure Florida maximizes the Hurricane Michael relief fund from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to rebuild and help those in need.

Blaise Gainey is a State Government Reporter for WFSU News. Blaise hails from Windermere, Florida. He graduated from The School of Journalism at the Florida A&M University. He formerly worked for The Florida Channel, WTXL-TV, and before graduating interned with WFSU News. He is excited to return to the newsroom. In his spare time he enjoys watching sports, Netflix, outdoor activities and anything involving his daughter.