Larry Bell
Growing up on the Gulf beaches of Pinellas County and on Barbados Drive at my grandparents' house, I was raised by my mother and grandparents, experiencing life in Section 8 projects and foster care among a diverse community of races, ethnicities, cultures, and creeds. The beaches have always held a special place in my heart, fostering a deep love for the coastal environment. My grandparents were a strong influence on my Christian faith, instilling in me values that continue to guide my life. My grandfather, a legal Swiss immigrant, taught me the importance of citizenship and shared with me the pride he felt in becoming an American citizen. His stories of the steps he took to achieve citizenship profoundly shaped my understanding of the value of this privilege.
While politics wasn't a topic often discussed in my household, I vividly remember my grandparents' support for Ronald Reagan and watching his speeches on TV in school. As I grew older, I realized the importance of understanding how politics affect all walks of life in different ways. This realization sparked my passion for educating the local community, ensuring that others don't miss out on this critical aspect of life.
As a local business owner and a single father, loving and raising my daughter is one of the most important roles I cherish. I believe in reaching our youth through leadership, education, and action to prepare them for the challenges of tomorrow. With an unwavering faith in God, I stay active and engaged with elected politicians and community leaders. I often remind myself and others that "You can't fly with the eagles while running with the turkeys." Through Real Florida Republicans, and alongside my partner JT, we aim to redefine what the "silent majority" means today. I strongly believe it's time to become unsilenced, to unite, and to make Republicans the new majority.