Donald Jay Gaetz, known as Don Gaetz, is an American businessman and Republican politician born on January 22, 1948. He built a successful career in healthcare, founding and serving as president and CEO of Hospice of the Florida Suncoast from 1983 to 2006, where he expanded palliative care services across Northwest Florida. His business ventures also included real estate and other enterprises, establishing him as a prominent figure in the region's economy before entering politics. Gaetz's political career began in 2006 when he was elected to the Florida State Senate, representing District 5 (later District 1) until 2016. He served as President of the Florida Senate from 2012 to 2014, focusing on legislation related to education reform, economic development, and healthcare access. After leaving the Senate, he remained active in community and political circles, endorsing candidates and supporting conservative causes. In 2024, Gaetz staged a comeback, winning election to the Florida Senate for District 2, representing parts of Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, and Escambia counties in Northwest Florida. As the father of U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz, he has been influential in Florida's Republican networks, leveraging his experience in advocacy for healthcare policy. Throughout his career, Gaetz has been recognized for his bipartisan approach in the Senate, though he aligns firmly with Republican principles. His influence extends through family ties and business connections, contributing to networks of power in Florida politics.