Tallahassee, FL – The Southern Group proudly announces the addition of fundraising guru Jon Stewart, who has raised millions for local, state and federal candidates and has deep connections in Tampa political circles.
After being courted by Florida’s top lobby shops, Stewart’s first day with The Southern Group is this week, and he will immediately dive into Tampa local policy and government relations.
Stewart joins the firm after a 10-year career in fundraising, culminating in the launch of his own company in mid-2022. After the birth of Jon Stewart Consulting, he helped raise money for successful campaigns for Tampa City Council candidate Alan Clendenin and Senator Shevrin Jones.
“Nobody knows local government in Tampa better than Jon,” said Seth McKeel, former state representative and managing partner of The Southern Group’s Tampa office. “I’ve seen Jon become a true force in the Tampa and Hillsborough political scene and his prodigious list of contacts will serve him well in this new position,” McKeel said.
Stewart’s fundraising talents have been applied to presidential, gubernatorial and local races over the past 10 years. He was named a Florida Politics Top 30 under 30 leader in 2016 and has been making waves since.
“Jon Stewart is talented and resourceful, a dynamic force in fundraising and consulting,” said Tampa City Council Member Alan Clendenin. “His ability to build strong relationships and strategic insight were invaluable in my organization. I’m confident as a member of the Southern Group Team, he’ll help lead his clients to success.”
Jon’s fundraising success has been demonstrated in Hillsborough County as well after he helped Hillsborough County Commissioner Harry Cohen win and then re-win his seat.
“Collaborating with Jon Stewart on multiple campaigns has been a true pleasure. His strategic prowess and unwavering commitment have been invaluable,” said Commissioner Cohen.” Jon’s ability to build meaningful connections is an asset, and I look forward to seeing his continued success.”
Stewart earned his degree in environmental policy from the University of South Florida in Tampa. He says that experience will be useful for clients trying to navigate the tricky “smart growth” climate in Tampa.
“It’s an honor to join such a prestigious firm,” Stewart said. “I can’t wait to jump in and find new ways to help clients navigating local government in the Tampa-area.”