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Cortes Endorses Costello For Congress

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State Representative Bob Cortes today made the following statement endorsing Fred Costello for Congress in Florida’s 6th congressional district:

“As a colleague, as a friend, and as a Puerto Rican American, I strongly support Fred Costello’s candidacy for Congress. Sadly, his primary opponent has made it clear he does not believe Puerto Ricans should be allowed to exercise their rights as American citizens.

“This is an outrage. No candidate for office in this great country should be so woefully ignorant of the Constitution and the rights it protects for American citizens. Electing a candidate like that is dangerous and would be a disservice, not just to the Puerto Rican Americans he would disenfranchise, but to all freedom-loving Americans.

“Thankfully, Fred Costello has made it clear that he holds the opposite view, because he understands our Constitution and the rights it gives Puerto Ricans and all Americans, among them the right to register to vote and to move anywhere they please within the United States. I urge all District 6 voters to reject prejudice and ignorance and support Fred Costello.”

Paid by Bob Cortes, Republican, for State Representative

Danny Burgess Endorses Tommy Gregory for Florida House

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The District 38 state representative says Gregory’s leadership skills and
passion for supporting military veterans make him the right choice

The Tommy Gregory Campaign today announced the endorsement of State Representative Danny Burgess. Gregory is running for the District 73 seat in the Florida House of Representatives, currently held by Joe Gruters, who is running for the Florida Senate.

“Tommy Gregory’s strong conservative leadership will be a welcome addition to the Florida House,” said Burgess. “He is a dedicated patriot, committed to ensuring that Florida’s economy remains strong and Florida is a state where folks from all walks of life, including our veterans, can flourish. I’m proud to support a fellow veteran and JAG, and I look forward to working with him. Plus, we need more Zephyrhills Bulldogs in office!”

Burgess was elected to represent District 38 in the Florida House of Representatives in 2014, and he currently serves as Chair of the Insurance and Banking Subcommittee. At 18, he was the youngest person ever elected to the Zephyrhills City Council, and at 26, he was elected Zephyrhills’s youngest mayor.

Like Gregory, Burgess is from Pasco County, where both men graduated from Zephyrhills High School. They also share the distinction of both having served in the JAG Corps. Burgess is currently a JAG in the Army Reserves, and Gregory served as a JAG for most of his 20 years on active duty in the United States Air Force.

“I’m proud to have the support of a leader like Danny Burgess,” said Gregory. “He shares my passion for serving our country, strengthening our communities, and making sure our veterans are fully supported. He is a dedicated public servant, and I’m excited about working with him to keep Florida on the right track.”

Paid by Tommy Gregory, Republican, for State Representative

Combee for Congress Proud to Announce Third Wave of Endorsements

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Lake County Sheriff Peyton Grinnell, Lake County Property Appraiser Carey Baker, Florida State Senator Dennis Baxley, and Lake County Commissioner Sean Parks have announced their support of Neil Combee for Florida Congressional District 15.

Lake County Sheriff Peyton Grinnell says, “It is important to me that we have someone in Congress that will support those of us who protect the community. I have no doubt that Neil Combee will fight for law enforcement personnel and others who keep our country safe.”

“Keeping costs down for homeowners and simplifying the tax system for everyone is very important to me, and I know Neil will fight to do this in Washington. Additionally, I know Neil is committed to supporting our military, veterans, and our 2nd Amendment rights. I’m proud to support Neil for Congress,” Lake County Property Appraiser Carey Baker stated.

“Neil is the best person for this job because of his service. No candidate will fight to Make America Great Again and help the President on Capitol Hill like Neil Combee. That’s why I’m behind Combee for Congress 100%,” State Senator Dennis Baxley stated.

Lake County Commissioner Sean Parks said, “I’m endorsing Neil Combee for Congress because of his history of fighting for the average person, and for working to keep Florida and this country good for small business and workers.”

“To have these key folks in Lake County support me and my campaign means the world to me. I have great respect for all of them, and it warms my heart to know that these great leaders in Lake County believe in me and my campaign to be the next congressman for Florida’s 15th Congressional District,” Neil Combee responded.

These endorsements join the growing list of endorsements by State Rep. Ben Albritton, State Rep. Mike LaRosa, State Rep. Josie Tomkow, Fmr. State Rep. John Wood, Mayor Tim Pospichal of Auburndale, Mayor Joe LaCascia of Polk City, Former State Senator and Former Florida State House Representative J.D. Alexander, Former State Attorney Jerry Hill, Former Polk County Commissioner and Former Mayor of Auburndale Jack Myers, Former Polk County Commissioner Jerry Carter, Former Lakeland City Commissioner Don Gifford, and Former Polk County Commissioner and member of the Southwest Florida Water Management District Paul Senft. There will be many more to come.

Paid for by Friends of Neil Combee

Former Sheriff Brad Steube Endorses Tommy Gregory

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The former Manatee County sheriff says Gregory has demonstrated
the leadership and service needed to be an effective legislator

The Tommy Gregory Campaign today announced the endorsement of former Manatee County Sheriff Brad Steube. Gregory is running for the District 73 seat in the Florida House of Representatives, currently held by Joe Gruters, who is running for the Florida Senate. Steube’s endorsement follows the announcement earlier this week that Sarasota Sheriff Tom Knight is also supporting Gregory.

“Tommy Gregory’s character and values will make him a very effective legislator,” said Steube. “His military career demonstrates his commitment to public service, and I believe he will bring the same determination and skill to the Florida House. I am pleased to endorse him and urge all District 73 voters to support him.”

In 1978, Steube joined the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, where he held various leadership positions throughout his career, including Commander of the Narcotics and Vice Unit as well as the Special Weapons and Tactics Team. Former Governor Charlie Crist appointed him Sheriff in 2007, and he won re-election in 2008 and 2012. Steube is a graduate of Leadership Manatee and the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy. In 2015, he announced that he planned to retire and would not seek re-election in 2016.

“Sheriff Steube really modeled community leadership during his time in office,” said Gregory. “I appreciate the example he set, and I’m honored to have his support. I look forward to working with him and other local leaders to find policy solutions that will help us overcome our area’s challenges and make the most of our opportunities.”

Paid by Tommy Gregory, Republican, for State Representative

Mayor Manny Cid Endorses Diaz

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The Miami Lakes Mayor is the latest area mayor on a growing list
of endorsements for Manny Diaz’s bid for Florida Senate District 36

The Manny Diaz Campaign today announced the endorsement of Miami Lakes Mayor Manny Cid. Diaz has represented District 103 in the Florida House of Representatives since 2012 and is seeking the District 36 seat in the state senate. Cid’s endorsement comes on the heels of endorsements by Hialeah Mayor Carlos Hernandez, Hialeah Gardens Mayor Yioset De La Cruz, and Doral Mayor JC Bermudez.

“Manny was an effective state representative, and there’s no question that he will be an outstanding state senator, ” stated Mayor Cid. “When residents in West Lakes and Royal Oaks needed help with flooding, Manny delivered much needed funds to revamp their drainage system. When dozens of Miami Lakers saw their property lines being eroded into the public canal system, Manny responded by funding the stabilization project that saved millions of dollars worth of homeowners’ private properties. He delivered for Miami Lakes, and that’s why I am proud to endorse him.”

Cid was first elected to the Miami Lakes Town Council in 2012 and as Mayor in 2016. He is an advocate for increased openness and transparency in government, with live webcasting of town meetings coming online under his leadership. He serves on the Educational Excellence School Advisory Council for Bob Graham Educational Center and is Chairman of the Mother of Our Redeemer Catholic School Board. Cid was awarded the Florida League of Cities Home Rule Hero Award in 2015 and 2016.

“Mayor Manny Cid is a great public servant, and I’m proud to have his support,” said Diaz. “He works hard for the people of Miami Lakes, and I look forward to working with him to maintain the high quality of life we enjoy in our community.”

ON THE WEB: votemannydiazjr.com

Paid by Manny Diaz Jr., Republican, for State Senator

Mayor JC Bermudez Endorses Diaz

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Doral Mayor Bermudez says Diaz’s record of outstanding public service in the
Florida House makes him well positioned for effective leadership in the Senate

The Manny Diaz Campaign today announced the endorsement of Doral Mayor Juan Carlos “JC” Bermudez. Diaz has represented District 103 in the Florida House of Representatives since 2012 and is seeking the District 36 seat in the state senate. Bermudez’s support follows endorsements from Hialeah Mayor Carlos Hernandez and Hialeah Gardens Mayor Yioset De La Cruz last week.

“Manny Diaz is very well positioned to be an effective state senator,” said Bermudez. “He knows our area well and has served us with vision, integrity, and tenacity during his time in the Florida House. I look forward to sending him back to Tallahassee as our Senator and continuing to work with him for the good of all of our mutual constituents.”

Bermudez was the founding Mayor of Doral, serving in that capacity for the city’s first nine and a half years of existence, and was re-elected in 2016. During his time as Mayor, Doral has received numerous national accolades, including being named Best City for Business Start-Ups by Business Week and third best place in the United States to retire by U.S. News and World Report. Bermudez currently serves on the United States Conference of Mayors Advisory Board and the Miami-Dade County Transportation Planning Organization.

“Mayor Bermudez is an outstanding public servant, and I’m proud to add him to our team,” said Diaz. “Throughout his career, he has always demonstrated a commitment to hard work and excellence, and I look forward to working with him in continuing service to our community.”

ON THE WEB: votemannydiazjr.com

Paid by Manny Diaz Jr., Republican, for State Senator

Mayor Yioset De La Cruz Endorses Diaz

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The longtime mayor of Hialeah Gardens is the latest local
leader to support Manny Diaz’s run for the Florida Senate

The Manny Diaz Campaign today announced the endorsement of Hialeah Gardens Mayor Yioset De La Cruz. Diaz has represented District 103 in the Florida House of Representatives since 2012 and is seeking the District 36 seat in the state senate. De La Cruz’s endorsement comes on the heels of Hialeah Mayor Carlos Hernandez’s earlier this week.

“Manny Diaz has distinguished himself as an effective leader,” said De La Cruz. “During his time in the House, he has represented our community well and has been a tireless advocate for education reform and increased opportunity for all Floridians. I am proud to endorse his candidacy for Florida Senate, and I look forward to continuing to work with him.”

A native of Cuba, De La Cruz came to Miami in 1983 and moved to Hialeah Gardens the following year. In 2000, he was elected Mayor of Hialeah Gardens, becoming one of the youngest mayors in the state. He is currently the youngest mayor in Miami-Dade County. De La Cruz is very active with the Florida League of Cities, serving as Chairman of its Intergovernmental Legislative Policy Committee.

“I’m grateful to have the support of a dedicated public servant like Mayor De La Cruz,”’ said Diaz. “For many years, he has devoted himself to working hard to make Hialeah Gardens a better place, and I’m honored to have him and so many other local leaders supporting me.”

ON THE WEB: VoteMannyDiazJr.com

Paid by Manny Diaz Jr., Republican, for State Senator

Lisa Carlton Endorses Tommy Gregory for Florida House

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The former state senator says Gregory’s leadership experience
and military service make him the right choice for District 73

The Tommy Gregory Campaign today announced the endorsement of former State Senator Lisa Carlton, who also served Southwest Florida in the Florida House of Representatives. Gregory is running for the District 73 seat in the Florida House of Representatives, currently held by Joe Gruters, who is running for the Florida Senate.

“Tommy Gregory’s leadership experience and service to our country make him the clear choice for District 73,” said Carlton. “I’m confident that he will be a reliable and strong voice for low taxes and other policies that will make our community even stronger.”

Carlton, an eighth generation Floridian, was elected in 1994 to the Florida House, where she served two terms. She then served for ten years in the Florida Senate, including as Senate Pro Tempore from 2006 to 2008. Currently, she is a guest lecturer at the Bob Graham Center for Public Service at the University of Florida and at the Lou Frey Institute of Politics and Government at the University of Central Florida.

“Lisa Carlton has a distinguished record of public service, both as an elected official and as a private citizen,” said Gregory. “I’m honored to have her support, and I look forward to working with her and other community leaders who work so hard to make Southwest Florida such a great place to call home.”

Paid by Tommy Gregory, Republican, for State Representative

DeSantis Endorses Mast For Re-Election

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The Mast for Congress campaign today announced that Florida gubernatorial candidate and Congressman Ron DeSantis has endorsed Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) for re-election.

“Brian is an American patriot.  Both on the battlefield and in Congress, he’s gone above and beyond the call of duty to defend the Constitution and our American values,” Rep. DeSantis said.  “He’s never asked anything in return for his service, but with Nancy Pelosi funding his opponent, now is the time to rally behind him and show Nancy Pelosi that Florida can’t be bought!”

Congressmen Mast and DeSantis have worked together to address numerous issues for Florida and the country, including:

  • H.J. Res. 6 – Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of terms that a Member of Congress may serve
  • H.R. 2712 – The Palestinian International Terrorism Support Prevention Act
  • Calling for the creation of an Everglades Restoration Infrastructure Taskforce to “expedite and energize the federal government’s efforts to restore the Everglades”

BACKGROUND

Rep. Mast qualified by petition to appear on the ballot for re-election.  To qualify by petition in FL-18, a candidate must have 5,110 verified signatures. Candidates who failed to secure the necessary support to get on the ballot through petition signatures were required to buy a spot on the ballot.  The filing deadline was May 4, 2018.

Total Verified Petition Signatures: 5,501
Total Republicans: 3,641 (66%)
Total Independents (NPA):  952 (17%)
Total Democrats: 890 (16%)
Total Other: 18 (1%)

Total Verified St. Lucie County: 2,638 (48%)
Total Verified Martin County: 1,790 (33%)
Total Verified Palm Beach County: 1,073 (19%)

Javier Enriquez Announces Run for House District 114

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A lifelong resident of the district, Enriquez is
running on a conservative, pro-jobs platform

Miami native Javier Enriquez today announced his candidacy for the District 114 seat in the Florida House of Representatives. Enriquez, a Republican, is an attorney and partner at Jeffrey and Enriquez, PLLC. He is a lifelong resident of District 114, which includes part of Miami-Dade County.

“District 114 has always been my home, it would be an honor and a privilege to serve my friends and neighbors in Tallahassee,” said Enriquez. “I am committed to supporting policies that foster economic growth, empower the middle class, and help families and small businesses get ahead. Our campaign is off to a great start. I am looking forward to meeting and connecting with the residents of my district to see how I can better serve them in Tallahassee. I am confident that together we can continue to build a stronger economy, a stronger community, and a stronger Florida.”

Enriquez graduated cum laude from the University of Miami School of Law, where he was President of the Federalist Society and served on the SBA Supreme Court throughout his time there. He also earned a bachelor’s degree and a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Miami, which is located in District 114.

As a practicing local attorney, Enriquez concentrates his practice on marital and family law and also has experience in election law, commercial litigation, and employment litigation. He is admitted to practice before all courts in the State of Florida, the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit.

He is actively involved in the community, including as a board member for the Knights of Columbus Coral Gables Council, Gables Chili Fest, Gulliver Schools Alumni Advisory Council, and the United Nations Women’s Miami Chapter.

Paid by Javier Enriquez, Republican, for State Representative