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Browning resigns, expected to run for Pasco schools chief

Posted Jan 11, 2012 by William March

Updated Jan 11, 2012 at 07:01 PM

Florida Secretary of State Kurt Browning has sent an official resignation letter to Gov. Rick Scott, and political insiders in Pasco County, his home turf, expect him to file papers soon to run for superintendent of the county schools.

Browning’s resignation is effective Feb. 17.

Current schools Superintendent Heather Fiorentino, a Republican like Browning, has already filed to run for re-election next year. Veteran county GOP activist Bill Bunting said Browning is expected to file within a few days.

“It’s going to be a close primary between two people who both have a lot of experience and are well-liked,” Bunting said.

Browning didn’t cite a specific reason for his resignation. “After a great deal of thought over the recent holidays, I have decided it is in the best interest of my family that I return to Pasco County,” he said in his letter to Scott.

In an interview, he said he’s considering the superintendent’s race but hasn’t made a decision.

“It’s an option, but that’s not why I’m coming home,” he said. “I just know it’s the right time to head back to Pasco. I miss my wife and I miss my family and I miss Pasco.”

Fiorentino is a former teacher in the Pasco County system, a former New Port Richey City Council member and school district official. She won the superintendent’s post in 2004.

Before being appointed secretary of state by Scott in 2011, Browning served for 26 years as Pasco supervisor of elections.