Bruce Armistead Smathers (born October 3, 1943) was a member of the Florida State Senate (Committees: Education, Governmental Operations, Ways and Means) and then was elected to and served as Secretary of State of Florida from 1975 - 1978.As Secretary of State, Smathers reformed election laws, modernized the Division of Corporations, became involved in the "Atocha" treasure dispute, expanded support for cultural affairs, and was best known as leader of the successful effort to preserve Florida's Historic State Capitol (1845–1978).