TEAM / Jon Stewart
Jon Stewart joined The Southern Group in 2024 after an accomplished career in campaign strategy, fundraising, and federal government relations. With over 10 years of political fundraising experience, Stewart has built strong relationships with Florida’s congressional delegation and key federal and state agencies, enhancing his ability to navigate both federal and state-level opportunities and secure critical funding for clients.
Stewart brings with him contacts across the state – but his deep connections to Tampa and Hillsborough County bring unique value to The Southern Group’s Tampa Bay office. His extensive network at both the state and federal levels make him a sought-after strategic advisor in political and policy circles.
Stewart’s “never met a stranger” persona has helped him raise countless millions of dollars for candidates ranging from presidential and gubernatorial races to Tampa City Council contests. His fundraising prowess, combined with his knowledge of government operations, has made him a key player in both political campaigns and public policy initiatives.
After earning his degree in Environmental Science and Policy from the University of South Florida, Stewart dove straight into politics. An Ohio native, Stewart’s family moved to Florida during his teenage years. Dinner table conversations about politics lit the fire for his career in the field. He went to Washington, D.C., where he completed an internship at the U.S. Department of the Interior before returning to Tampa to begin his professional journey.
He played an integral role as regional finance director in Charlie Crist’s gubernatorial campaign in 2014. From there, Stewart established himself as an invaluable strategic advisor on the campaign trail and held leadership roles in various campaigns for notable Florida Democrats. His understanding of the intersection between politics and policy has made him a trusted advisor to both candidates and clients.
A “Top 30 Under 30” Florida Politics alum in 2016, Stewart’s ability to craft successful fundraising strategies is well-documented. Most recently, his firm Jon Stewart Consulting helped raise money for successful Tampa City Council candidate Alan Clendenin and Senator Shevrin Jones.
In addition to his political expertise, Stewart has leveraged his knowledge of environmental policy to position himself as a subject matter expert on how businesses and other organizations can navigate the complex “smart growth” terrain. His relationships at the federal level, including with agencies and congressional offices, have helped him secure support for environmental and infrastructure initiatives.
When not working, Stewart is an animal lover who supports Friends of Strays, an organization devoted to sheltering abandoned pets.
