John Hallman, Chief Strategist

Veteran Florida legislative affairs professional with more than 20 years of experience

advocating before the Florida Legislature, executive agencies, and local governments.

Extensive background in grassroots advocacy, coalition building, public policy

development, government relations, legislative strategy, and political consulting.

Recognized for successfully organizing statewide issue campaigns, lobbying efforts,

and citizen engagement initiatives on tax policy, property rights, land use, economic

freedom, and limited government issues. Served in leadership roles with several state

and national public policy organizations.

President & Founder

Provides legislative consulting, government affairs, and strategic public policy services

to clients throughout Florida.

 Monitors legislation, regulatory actions, and executive branch activities.

 Advises clients on legislative strategy, stakeholder engagement, and grassroots

advocacy.

 Develops policy analysis and legislative tracking reports.

“I was honored to accept the Executive Director position with Defending Rural

Florida. I hail from a long line of Florida cattle ranchers spanning seven

generations. With a rich family heritage rooted in cattle ranching, my passion for

preserving Florida’s working farms and ranches comes naturally”.

Executive Director

• Led statewide advocacy efforts focused on land use, growth management, property rights, agricultural preservation, and local government authority.
• Coordinated legislative outreach campaigns before the Florida Legislature.
• Developed policy proposals and legislative recommendations concerning growth management and rural land conservation.
•  Built coalitions among landowners, agricultural interests, local officials, and grassroots organizations. 

January 2015-Present

Legislative Affairs Consultant

• Represented public policy interests before the Florida Legislature and state agencies. 
• Provided legislative analysis and strategic advocacy services. 
• Assisted with grassroots mobilization and coalition development efforts. 

Florida State Director

January 2003-2006

• Directed statewide grassroots and legislative advocacy efforts for the national free-market public policy organization. 
• Organized lobbying campaigns related to tax reform, government accountability, and economic policy. 
• Coordinated citizen engagement efforts with legislators and policymakers throughout Florida. 
• Managed activist training and legislative education programs. 

Deputy Director

• Advocated for civil justice reform and legal system modernization. 
• Coordinated legislative outreach and public affairs initiatives. 
• Worked with business leaders, legislators, and community stakeholders to advance policy objectives. 

Represented or worked with organizations including:

• Florida Taxpayers Union 
• Cut Property Taxes Now 
• Florida Campaign for Liberty 
• Liberty First Network 

Responsibilities included legislative lobbying, coalition management, public policy development, grassroots mobilization, media relations, and political strategy. ors, and community stakeholders to advance policy objectives.