How City Commissioner Ben Sorensen Drives Growth in Florida
From An Honorable Profession by The NewDEAL
April 9, 2026 · 27 min · Episode 320
About this episode
City Commissioner Ben Sorensen discusses his initiatives in Fort Lauderdale regarding homelessness, affordability, and the launch of a community court.
In this week's episode, host and NewDEAL CEO Debbie Cox Bultan speaks with Fort Lauderdale City Commissioner Ben Sorensen. They discuss what he's hearing from his constituents and highlight his efforts to address homelessness and affordability, as well as his "fail fast" mindset to adjust and drive more effective solutions. The conversation also covers the launch of the city's first-ever community court focused on rehabilitation and outlines his vision for building a thriving ocean economy. In addition, Sorensen discusses his belief that government should operate at the speed of business, as well as the experiences that led him into public service and how his background as a chaplain continues to shape his leadership. Tune in to also learn more about the political landscape in Florida, including the state of the Democratic brand and the Party's outlook heading into November. IN THIS EPISODE: • [02:00] What the city comissioner is currently hearing from the residents of Florida • [03:25] He highlights what's working in housing costs and homelessness in their city. • [05:30] "Fail Fast" and how they're working to bring down housing affordability. • [07:15] Com. Sorensen talks about…
People in this episode
Host: Debbie Cox Bultan
Guest: Ben Sorensen
Topics covered
- homelessness
- affordability
- community court
- ocean economy
- public service
- government efficiency
Keywords
- Florida
- Democratic brand
- political landscape
- leadership
- rehabilitation
Mentioned in this episode
Places: Florida, Fort Lauderdale
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