Polk Times

Congressman Scott Franklin, who represents Florida’s 18th district in the U.S. Congress, recently posted a series of updates on his social media accounts addressing issues ranging from agricultural trade to youth sports and federal drug policy.

On July 15, 2025, Franklin commented on recent trade developments affecting Florida tomato growers: "After years of getting squeezed by unfair Mexican growers who refuse to play by the rules, FL tomato growers are finally getting relief. My colleagues and I urged @CommerceGov to withdraw from the 2019 deal, and now they have, putting a 17.09% tariff in place. Big win for".

The following day, July 16, he extended congratulations to a local youth baseball team: "Huge congratulations to Bartow’s 8U All-Stars on an incredible 29–0 season and a well-earned trip to the Cal Ripken World Series. Thrilled to see these young athletes represent Polk County on the national stage. Good luck! https://t.co/orJofHHQDc".

On July 17, Franklin shared news about new federal legislation targeting fentanyl-related substances: "The HALT Fentanyl Act was signed into law by @POTUS! Permanently scheduling fentanyl-related substances strengthens law enforcement’s ability to prosecute fentanyl traffickers and helps protect families in FL and nationwide. Honored to be a part of this step in our fight. https://t.co/sCokc7AQ1y".

Scott Franklin has served as U.S. Representative for Florida’s 18th District since replacing Ross Spano in 2021. Prior to his time in Congress, Franklin served in the Florida House of Representatives. Born in Thomaston, Georgia in 1964 and currently residing in Lakeland at age 58, Franklin is also an alumnus of the United States Naval Academy (class of 1986) and Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University (class of 1994).