About State Representative Pat Patterson

Throughout the past two decades Pat Patterson has been one of Florida’s most accomplished elected leaders, serving citizens at both the local and state levels. 

His two terms on the Volusia County Council were marked by his personal commitment to promote economic development, protect our resources and save taxpayer dollars.  His five terms in the Florida House of Representatives give him valuable experience in the inner workings of state government and on the critical issues facing Floridians today.

As County Council chairman in the 1990s, Patterson recognized the potential danger wildfires could pose.  He formed a local “SWAT” team of medical professionals, emergency personnel and community representatives and ensured they had the training and preparation needed in such a crisis.  His vision and active leadership helped to save lives when, in 1998, firestorms ravaged Volusia County and the surrounding area.

Later that year voters elected Pat to his first term in the Florida Legislature, where he became a leading voice for landmark anti-crime legislation, record tax cuts, greater accountability in our schools and more help for working families and seniors struggling to afford the cost of health care.  He also sponsored legislation to stem the rising tide of juvenile crime.  Representative Patterson’s “Tough Love” package of reforms included more resources for prevention and tougher penalties for 16 and 17 year olds who commit adult crimes.

Consistently pro-business and pro-family, Patterson was recognized after his first legislative session as one of the Top 40 Legislators by the Florida Chamber of Commerce.  A former classroom teacher with a master’s degree in early childhood education, he was appointed to serve on a select committee to strengthen public schools.

The native Floridian has held leadership positions in a number of community service organizations, including the Metropolitan Planning Organization; the American Cancer Society; The House Next Door, a family counseling center; and the ACT Corp., a mental health agency.  A church elder and U.S. Navy veteran, Pat is married to Anne, a writer of textbooks for home-schooled children.  They have four children and seven grandchildren.