John Sowinski is a founding partner of Consensus with more than 20 years experience in public policy, media relations, message development, and paid media management.  He is a veteran of numerous statewide political, issue and corporate campaigns, and has a wealth of experience in working with the media throughout Florida, including the Capitol Press Corps and editorial writers with newspapers across the state.

John has consulted for a number successful statewide issue and corporate campaigns and served as general consultant to the successful Mel Martinez for Senate campaign in 2004.

John is regarded as the premier expert on statewide referendum campaigns in Florida, having accomplished an unmatched record in statewide ballot initiatives.  He led 1992 “Eight is Enough” term limits campaign; the 1994 “Net Ban” campaign; the 1994 “No Casinos” campaign; the 1996 campaign against a proposed tax of Florida sugar; the 2000 campaign in support of high speed rail; and the 2002 Smoke Free Workplace initiative.

Prior to opening Consensus Communications, John managed transportation and growth management issues for the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce.  He also served on the staff of then-Orlando Mayor Bill Frederick.  Before working in the Mayor’s office, John was the Executive Director and chief lobbyist for the Tallahassee-based Florida Student Association. 

John is a graduate of the University of Central Florida, where he served as Student Body President. While at UCF, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration.  In 2002, the UCF Alumni Association honored him with the Professional Achievement Award for the College of Health and Public Affairs.  In 2003, John was appointed by the governor to the St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board.