Let me tell you about the youngest District Representative: Amber Mariano. She is only twenty-one years old, but is already chasing her dreams and has succeeded in doing so. She is extremely driven and intellectual and is not only very involved in politics, but also with school and her community. Amber has held internship positions within the Florida political sphere in which she met amazing people who helped her realize her potential and supported her in making the moves that she did to earn her impressive title. I talked to Amber recently and conducted a short interview to learn just a little bit more about her journey, her views and her goals.
When did you start getting into politics? I have always been into Politics because my dad has been a County Commissioner for 12 years now. However, I think the first election other than his that I really got into was McCain’s in 2008. I was inspired by his VP choice of Governor Palin. That is when I realized the political stage was not isolated to men.
What made you decide to pursue political science?
Since 6th grade I knew that I wanted to major in Political Science. I think that I just looked up what majors studied politics, found that one, and I just stuck from there on out.
Why made you make the decision to pursue your career goal in 2016, at such a young age?
I was interning up in the Florida House this past session for Rep. Plakon and Rep. Plasencia “Coach P,” and I got very close to Coach P. He was telling me one day that he was changing districts and that there was no other Republicans running for his old seat. He asked me if I knew anyone who would want to run, and I told him that I did. I felt like God placed the opportunity in front of me, and I thought it was the right time.
What are your goals for the future?
I plan to work very hard to serve my constituents in West Pasco for as long as they will have me. I don’t know where life will take me, but I hope it is in public service.
What do you want to accomplish during your term?
I want to work to expand Bright Futures to summer terms and increase the excess credit hour cap. Additionally, I want to bring home some funds to my district to fix the flooding issues that we have going on. We flood out after a simple rainstorm and it is really sad.
Who are your idols that have helped shape you into the person you are today?
My dad has been my rock through all of this. He has helped build me into the strong woman I am today and has allowed me to follow my dreams. He or the rest of my family never doubted me when everyone else did. Marco Rubio is also an idol of mine. His message has really inspired me, because I know he is a principled leader who cares so much about the future of our county. Getting to work for him up in DC really helped me hone in on my own beliefs and helped me picture a career in public service.
What is your favorite part about being involved in the political field?
Being able to actually have an impact on the problems that we deal with everyday. I am so excited to be able to not just complain about issues anymore, but actually put forth legislation to solve those issues.
Is there anything unique or interesting about you that not many people know about?
I love playing golf, soccer, and tennis. I think athletics shaped me to be the person I am today.
What advice do you have for people with dreams as big as yours?
Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something, because if you let them convince you they will end up being right. Like Marco Rubio has said “They told me to wait my turn— but I didn’t know there was a line.” I think it is your turn when you want it to be, and if you work hard anything is possible!
We really appreciate Amber taking the time out of her busy schedule to talk to us and to have the privilege to find out a little bit more about her as a person and a politican. We wish Amber the best of luck in her current term and for the exciting years to come!