Alan Trask (June 26, 1933 – January 9, 2019) was an American politician who represented parts of central Florida in the Florida State Senate from the late 1960s through the early 1980s. Born and raised in Bartow, Florida, he became known to constituents as a legislator attentive to local economic and land-use concerns.
Political career and roles
Trask was first elected to the Florida Senate in 1968. During his tenure he served consecutive terms and, following redistricting, represented the 27th district and later the 13th district until 1982. He held leadership responsibilities in the chamber, including serving as president pro tempore, a role that placed him in the Senate's formal leadership hierarchy and involved presiding duties and committee influence.
Positions and areas of focus
Throughout his legislative career Trask concentrated on issues important to his region. He was associated with policies affecting agriculture, local infrastructure, and natural resource management—areas of recurring concern in central Florida. His practical approach reflected the priorities of a district with farming, small business, and land-use interests.
Party affiliation and later life
Trask served much of his career as a member of the Democratic Party. In later years he changed his political affiliation and became associated with the Republican Party, a switch that mirrored broader partisan shifts in Florida during the late 20th century. After leaving the legislature he remained a figure of local note and continued involvement in community matters.
Dates and legacy
- Born: June 26, 1933, in Bartow, Florida
- First elected to Florida Senate: 1968
- Served: through 1982 (districts 27th, then 13th after redistricting)
- Leadership: served as president pro tempore of the Florida Senate
Alan Trask died on January 9, 2019, in a hospital in Lakeland, Florida. The reported cause of death was respiratory failure. Remembered by constituents for his local focus and legislative service, Trask's career reflects a period of Florida politics shaped by regional economic interests and shifting party alignments.