Blacklidge’s momentum in the race for House District 69 continues to grow with
the state’s largest small business group calling him the best choice for District 69.
The Ray Blacklidge Campaign today announced the endorsement of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB)/Save America’s Free Enterprise (SAFE) Trust Political Action Committee. Blacklidge, a Republican, is seeking the District 69 seat in the Florida House of Representatives. Blacklidge was also recently endorsed by Associated Industries of Florida PAC (AIFPAC), another influential pro-business group.
“Electing a pro-small business legislature has never been more important,” said Bill Herrle, NFIB’s Florida Executive Director. “We are confident that Ray Blacklidge will support policies like lower taxes and sensible regulation that will make it easier to do business and expand and strengthen the economy for all Floridians.”
NFIB is Florida’s largest small business association. With over 10,000 small businesses in Florida, the endorsement brings substantial grassroots support along with it. The decision to back Blacklidge was based on a candidate interview and questionnaire regarding key issues affecting small business, including healthcare, taxes, tort reform, and regulatory issues.
“I’m proud to have NFIB’s endorsement,” said Blacklidge. “Entrepreneurs face huge challenges, and Florida must be a place where government promotes opportunity for them rather than stifles it. Small business owners are the backbone of our communities, and I look forward to working with NFIB to support them.”
In addition to NFIB/SAFE and AIFPAC, Blacklidge has been endorsed by several current and former elected officials, including State Representative Jim Boyd, former State Representative Jim Frishe, Pinellas Park Councilman Rick Butler, Seminole Mayor Leslie Waters, and South Pasadena Mayor Max Elson.
House District 69 covers the south Pinellas beach communities from Redington Shores to Fort DeSoto, as well as portions of St. Petersburg, Gulfport, Kenneth City, and Pinellas Park. With 36 percent of the district’s voter registration, Republicans maintain a slight lead over the Democrats’ 35 percent. Independents and minor parties make up 29 percent of the district.
