On its own, the name “Mike Hightower” carries enough weight to turn heads. Consider the accomplishments behind the moniker and you’ll know why. BlueCross BlueShield’s lead legislative lobbyist for more than 20 years, Duval County’s Republican Party Chair and one of the most prominent campaign fundraisers in Florida, Hightower deserves the recognition. Yet he remains humble. “I wouldn’t be here without several important things: supportive friends and family and patience. It’s been a long ride, but it’s been fun.”
Hightower invited Daily Record Reporter J. Brooks Terry on a tour of his Workspace late last week. Located on the fourth floor of BlueCross’s Gate Parkway headquarters, Hightower’s office is filled to the brim with all kinds of political memorabilia and non-profit tokens of thanks.
“I try to find a place for everything I’m given,” said Hightower. “If someone thinks enough of you to give you something, I think you owe it to them to be a gracious recipient.”