[1] He graduated with a degree in international communications in 2003, and joined the United States Coast Guard Reserve later that year, where he worked as a port security specialist.
[2] Under Abruzzo's leadership, Palm Beach County became the world's largest investor in Israel government bonds, amounting to $700 Million of a $4.67 Billion total portfolio as of 2024.
The plaintiff's lawyer accused Abruzzo in a press release of “making poor financial decisions" with taxpayer money based on his own political beliefs.
However, when Gannon suspended her Senate campaign to instead seek re-election, Abruzzo switched races, instead opting to challenge Republican Palm Beach County Commissioner Mary McCarty.
[15] The Palm Beach Post endorsed Abruzzo over Peterson, citing his opposition to Governor Rick Scott's proposal to eliminate the state income tax and education cuts.
[17] The Sun-Sentinel concurred, noting that while Peterson "shows promise as a first-time candidate," Abruzzo "has a track record that fits this new district" and his "experience and productivity gives him a sizeable edge.
[20] He sponsored legislation that would have prevented discrimination against members of the LGBT community in employment, housing, or public accommodations, though it died in the Senate Judiciary Committee.
[21] Abruzzo passed legislation allowed judges to require that individuals found guilty of fraud or corruption against a governmental entity should pay rstitution to that government.