Candidate Profile: FL Commissioner of Agriculture: Adam Putnam

Candidate: Adam Putnam

Office: Commissioner of Agriculture (incumbent)

Party: Republican

Adam Putnam has been the Florida Commissioner of Agriculture since winning election to the post in 2010. Previously he was the U.S. Representative for Florida's 12th congressional district, serving 10 years in the seat. He faces Democrat Thaddeus Hamilton in the November election.

Putnam was born in Bartow, FL and attended the University of Florida, graduating with a BS in Food and Resource Economics.

Prior to serving in Congress, Putnam served in the Florida House of Representatives from 1996 to 2000. He was only 21 when he first took the office and then became the youngest member of Congress at the time, when he took that office in 2001 at only 26 years old, just one year after becoming constitutionally eligible.

In Washington, Putnam gained national attention when he became the top Republican in either chamber to call for the resignation of former U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales. "For the good of the nation, I think it is time for fresh leadership at the Department of Justice," said Putnam.

Putnam is one of the most influential Republican office holders in Florida and is considered a strong contender for the party in the 2018 governor's race. As Commissioner of Agriculture, Putnam has showed a very pro-business/pro-industry stance, streamlining rules and regulations in many areas.

He has drawn criticism from environmentalists who argue that tighter oversight on oil drilling is needed in the state and for his support of fracking for natural gas.

Putnam is a strong proponent of gun rights, creating the “Fast Track” process that enables eligible applicants to apply in person at one of eight regional licensing offices. Soon, Floridians will also be able to apply for concealed weapon licenses in person at select tax collectors’ offices throughout the state. Putnam also worked with the Florida Legislature to reduce the cost for a concealed weapon license and extend the privilege to veterans under the age of 21.