McCloud

By Wes Wolfe

Whensomeone moves from working as a legislative intern with a lobbying firm to becoming a first-stringer for one of the largest and most important state Republican parties in the country, people will take notice.

So it is with Cody McCloud

The Political Director for the Republican Party of Florida (RPOF), McCloud has spent most of his career thus far in communication roles for Govs. Rick Scott and Ron DeSantis. For someone placed in such a public view, he has a remarkably light internet presence compared to most in such a high-profile communications environment.

“While a lot of politics can be about promoting yourself, those who know me know that has never been my M.O.,” McCloud said. “I’m much more of a behindthe-scenes type of guy, and I’ve always tried to just keep my head down and focus on the work at hand. This profile is definitely outside of my wheelhouse and comfort zone.”

McCloud began his career with The Fiorentino Group, a Jacksonville-based government relations firm that has significant influence in Tallahassee.

“Cody interned for us as a college student years ago and was a cut above,” said Joe Mobley, a partner and principal at The Fiorentino Group. “It has been a point of pride to watch his career take off and it’s a testament to his sharp intellect, friendly disposition, and keen political compass.

“I expect he’ll continue to make a positive impact on Florida’s political landscape for many years to come.”

McCloud gives The Fiorentino Group credit for launching his career.

“I learned so much so quickly during my time there, but I think most importantly, I learned that in this business you’re only as strong as the team around you,” McCloud said. “And while this may sound cliché, I’m fortunate to have been a part of some of the best teams in the Process, and I consider myself extremely lucky to have gotten to work with so many incredible colleagues and friends.”

After a time with Greenberg Traurig as a legislative assistant, he began serving as a communications specialist in the Governor’s Office — first for Scott, then DeSantis — moving up to Press Secretary for DeSantis in January 2020.

He spent another year as the Director of Legislative Affairs for the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation before getting into the mix with the state GOP.

“After having spent most of my career in state government, coming to RPOF for the 2022 cycle provided an exciting opportunity to do something different,” McCloud said. “Working at the party has given me new experiences and perspectives on the political process that I didn’t have before, as well as introduced me to some great people I wouldn’t have met or interacted with otherwise.

“Every single day presents unique challenges that force you to adapt and be nimble in order to win the day and be successful, which I really enjoy.”