Florida Airports Council Named New Advocacy Director

The trade group hired Brayden Harrell to lead its state and federal lobbying efforts on aviation policy.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in People

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of an aircraft wing and runway light, evoking the precision of aviation infrastructure and regulatory policy. — The Florida Airports Council has appointed Brayden Harrell to serve as its new Legislative and Political Affairs Director, overseeing the state's public aviation advocacy. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

The Florida Airports Council has appointed Brayden Harrell as its Legislative and Political Affairs Director. Harrell is tasked with managing government relations for the state's public airport network.

Why it matters

This leadership change impacts how the aviation sector coordinates with policymakers in Tallahassee and Washington to address infrastructure and operational funding priorities.

This appointment fills a singular legislative leadership role within the Florida Airports Council. Harrell brings experience from his tenure at the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants and work on the 2022 Marco Rubio U.S. Senate campaign.

The players

Brayden Harrell

The new Legislative and Political Affairs Director for the Florida Airports Council and a former political aide and legislative manager.

Florida Airports Council

A trade association representing public airports across Florida in legislative, regulatory, and policy matters.

Marco Rubio

The United States Senator for Florida whose 2022 campaign employed Harrell.

The details

Harrell will serve as the primary liaison between public airports and various industry stakeholders and government bodies. His responsibilities include navigating aviation system regulatory issues and facilitating advocacy efforts. He draws on a background that includes experience as an aide in the Florida House and recognition as an INFLUENCE Magazine Rising Star in 2024.

Harrell launched his career during the 2022 election cycle.
Harrell was named an INFLUENCE Magazine Rising Star in 2024.
The council confirmed the new appointment on October 1, 2026.

Market Landscape

This hiring follows the pattern established during the 2022 U.S. Senate election cycle, as trade groups increasingly seek staff with direct political advocacy experience. It positions the Florida Airports Council to align its lobbying strategy with shifting legislative trends in Tallahassee and Washington.

Operators in the aviation and logistics supply chain should monitor how the council's legislative agenda evolves under new leadership. Expect renewed focus on infrastructure funding and regulatory compliance as the council increases its policy footprint.

The takeaway

This transition highlights the continued importance of political experience in navigating complex aviation regulatory environments. Business operators should track the council's upcoming legislative platform for potential changes to state infrastructure spending and aviation compliance requirements.