Defender of Freedom: Senator Jay Collins

••NEWS RELEASE••

For Immediate Release

4 August 2025

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Defender of Freedom: Senator Jay Collins

The Defender of Freedom Award was presented on 29 July, 2025 to Florida State Senator Jay Collins, a tireless patriot, defender of the principles of freedom and a living embodiment of the philosophy of peace through American strength.

With the Defender of Freedom Award, the Center for Security Policy pays tribute to state level officials who have done exemplary work to secure freedom for our constitutional republic and to safeguard its citizens.

Senator Collins is uniquely qualified to receive the Defender of Freedom Award as his entire adult life has been devoted to service in the defense of America and fulfilling his oath to uphold and defend the United States Constitution.

Collins is a highly decorated US Army Special Forces combat veteran who served 23 years in uniform. During his military career, Collins deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq and South America. A Purple Heart recipient, Collins served 5 years on active duty as a Green Beret after the loss of his leg.

Senator Collins has committed his life to serving our country, and has brought his unflinching leadership from the battlefield to the Florida State Senate where he has authored vital legislation geared toward security and liberty including:

Critical infrastructure protection
Secure communications protection
Protection from threats by foreign nations
Legislation promoting Public Safety and supporting First Responders
Human Trafficking Awareness
Anti-Doxxing legislation to protect military personnel and families
Restricting the interests of foreign countries, including ownership of real property and prohibiting certain arrangements between public entities and foreign countries of concern.
Requiring instruction in public schools on the history of communism
Emergency response mapping data for schools

Senator Collins’ steadfast focus on security, his bold leadership, and his selfless service to the people of Florida set the example for state leaders nationwide, making him fitting to be honored by the Center for Security Policy in 2025 as the “Defender of Freedom.”