Decision Maker

Steve Southerland

Tennessee State Senate - District 9

District 9, Tennessee

William Steve Southerland II is an American businessman, lobbyist, and former Republican politician who served as the U.S. Representative for Florida's 2nd congressional district from 2011 to 2015. His district encompassed much of the eastern Florida Panhandle, including Panama City and Tallahassee. Southerland, a funeral director and business executive, was elected to Congress in 2010 and re-elected in 2012. However, he was narrowly defeated in the 2014 election by Democrat Gwen Graham. Prior to his congressional service, Southerland also served as a senator in Tennessee's State Senate, representing District 9. Known for his conservative values, he has remained active in business and political circles since leaving Congress.