Seminole County Sheriff Don Eslinger will not be the next lieutenant governor.
Eslinger was one of four nominees for the appointment. But on Monday he sent a letter to the Sheriff's Office staff, letting them know he declined the position.
Eslinger said he spoke with the governor and said he was honored, however:
"It is my intention to continue serving the people of Seminole County as their Sheriff. With your untiring assistance and dedication, we have built our organization into one of the finest law enforcement and corrections agencies known throughout our state. I am extremely proud to serve with each of you and appreciate the professional service you provide daily to our citizens."
St. John's County School Superintendent Joseph Joyner also turned down the job. That leaves Hillsborough County Commissioner Sandy Murman and State Sen. Tom Lee, R-Brandon, as the last two finalists.
The lieutenant governor's job has been vacant since March, when Jennifer Carroll resigned amid the Allied Veterans Cafe scandal.