Profile: State Sen. John Thrasher
A Republican, he represents Senate District 8, which encompasses much of the coastal area from Fernandina Beach (Nassau County) down to parts of Daytona Beach Shores (Volusia County). Also includes Northside and areas east of St. Johns River in Duval County.
Election History
Elected to the Senate in September in a special election following the death of State Sen. Jim King in July, winning with 39 percent of the vote over candidates Art Graham, Stan Jordan and Dan Quiggle.
Family
Wife, Jean, and three children, Jennifer, Jon and Julie.
Education
Earned juris doctorate and bachelor of science degrees from Florida State University.
Occupation
Attorney.
Civic highlights and affiliations
Member of House 1992-2000, serving as Speaker 1998-2000. Appointed to Clay County Board of County Commissions 2007-2008. Elected to Clay County School Board 1989-1990. Served in U.S. Army 1966-1970, honorably discharged as Captain.
What he drives
“A Lexus.”
Favorite legislative moment
“Being Speaker of the House.”
Least favorite legislative moment
“Really don’t have any.”
Take on the budget
“Tough.”
Take on health care
“Tougher.”
How he de-stresses
“Spending time with my wife, Jean.”
Guilty pleasure
“Eating at Steak ‘n Shake with a big chocolate milkshake.”