The longest-serving member of the Florida Supreme Court, Justice Charles Canady, has announced his resignation to become the director of the Hamilton School for Classical and Civic Education at the University of Florida. Canady, who has served on the bench for over 17 years, made his decision public on Monday, stating that it has been a “great privilege” to serve the people of Florida. He will assume his new role in 2026.
In his statement, Canady expressed gratitude for his time on the court, noting that he will always value his years of service. “The time has come to move on to another position of public service,” said the 71-year-old justice. His departure creates an opportunity for Governor Ron DeSantis to appoint a successor to the court, a position he has filled multiple times since taking office.
Career Highlights and Political Background
Canady was appointed to the Florida Supreme Court in August 2008 by then-Governor Charlie Crist, who later changed his political affiliation from Republican to Democrat. Before his tenure on the Supreme Court, Canady served as a member of the Florida House of Representatives from 1984 to 1990 and subsequently as a U.S. Congressman from 1992 to 2000. He gained a reputation as a conservative lawmaker and was known for his staunch opposition to abortion, coining the term “partial birth abortion.”
During his congressional career, Canady was also involved in significant political events, including the impeachment trial of former President Bill Clinton in 1999. He served as chief justice of the Florida Supreme Court on three occasions, reflecting his prominent role in the state’s judiciary. Canady’s departure will leave a noticeable gap, as he was a key figure in the court’s conservative shift under DeSantis, following the retirements of several liberal justices.
Transition to Academia
Canady’s new position at the Hamilton School aligns with his long-standing interest in academia, a path he initially considered before pursuing law. In a 2010 interview, he reflected on his decision to enter the legal field, explaining, “I have never one day in my life as a lawyer regretted my decision to become a lawyer.”
The Hamilton School, as described on its website, aims to revolutionize higher education by focusing on critical thinking and traditional instruction. It is part of a broader movement among Republican state leaders to shift educational priorities away from diversity and inclusion initiatives. The school promotes the idea that it prepares students to think deeply, explore widely, and lead with purpose.
As Canady transitions into this new role, he will undoubtedly bring his extensive experience in law and public service to the academic environment, shaping future leaders based on principles that have guided his career.
His departure from the Supreme Court marks a significant moment in Florida’s judicial landscape and opens the door for new appointments that could further influence the ideological balance of the court. With his wife, Jennifer Canady, poised to become the state House speaker in 2028, the Canady family continues to play a prominent role in Florida politics.
