SUMTER COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – Welcome to Who’s Who in the 352, an exclusive 352Today feature in which we get to know some of our region’s movers and shakers a little better. This week’s subject is Samantha Scott, who was recently chosen by special election to represent FL House District 52.
Let’s start with the obvious question: What made you decide to get into politics?
I didn’t grow up dreaming of running for office, but I did grow up loving this community.
As a third-generation resident, this isn’t just where I live. It’s part of who I am. Over the years, I kept finding myself in the middle of conversations about the future of our community and state. I realized I didn’t just want a seat at the table, I wanted to take responsibility for helping move things forward. When you care this much about a place, stepping up to serve feels like the right thing to do.
What in your life and professional experience—jobs, philanthropy, community—do you think is applicable to the position of State Representative, and will help make you a good one?
I’ve spent most of my career bringing people together, and that turns out to be a pretty important skill in government.
Over the years, I’ve worked closely with small business owners, educators, first responders, and families. I’ve sat in a lot of rooms where people don’t always agree, and I learned how to listen, find common ground, and actually get things done.
What do you see as some of the most critical needs in District 52, and how might you bring more attention to or begin to address them at the state level?
At the heart of it, I think it comes down to three things: supporting job creators, keeping our community affordable, and building a strong, skilled workforce.
We’re fortunate to have a lot of small businesses and entrepreneurs here. So one of my top priorities is making sure we’re creating an environment where they can grow and succeed, not be buried under unnecessary regulations.
Affordability is another big issue. Whether it’s housing, insurance, or everyday costs, people are feeling it. We have to be thoughtful about the policies we pass and how they impact families trying to make ends meet.
Then there’s workforce. If we want our community to continue to thrive, we need to invest in training and education pathways that connect people to good-paying jobs, whether that’s through technical programs, apprenticeships, or partnerships with local employers.
When our businesses succeed, our workforce is strong, and families can afford to live here, everything else starts to fall into place.
Do you feel a certain pressure to “deliver” immediately as you’re taking office in an election year?
There’s definitely a sense of urgency, but I wouldn’t call it pressure in a negative way.
The people I represent don’t get to hit pause just because it’s an election year. Their needs are real, and they’re happening right now. For me, it’s about staying focused, learning quickly, building strong relationships, and finding ways to be effective from day one.
What are some of your favorite things about your district that only a lifelong resident might know about or fully appreciate?
There’s a rhythm and closeness to this community that you only really understand if you’ve lived it. It’s showing up for kids during fair week. It’s working the concession stand at the ballfield. It’s Friday night football, running into people you’ve known your whole life at the grocery store, and the way this community shows up for each other without being asked.
There’s an immense sense of pride here. People care about this place, and they want to protect what makes it special, even as we grow.
Where do you go to let go, to put all the cares and stress aside, whether it’s to have fun or experience community or just to be quiet for a bit?
I’m a big believer that sometimes the best reset isn’t a place, it’s people.
My husband Shawn and I have five kids and two grandkids. Spending time with them, other family, and close friends is what really grounds me. That, and just being out in the community in a way that’s not “official,” no speeches, no agenda, just normal life surrounded by the people I love in the place I love.
And finally, did you have anything to do with your father-in-law’s business, Mike Scott Plumbing, largely staying away from the poop puns and jokes everybody else uses? If so, thank you.
I won’t confirm or deny that we have completely avoided poop jokes, but I will tell you that we’re number one in the number two business.