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Ben Albritton Campaign

Bryan Beswick Endorses Albritton

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Albritton’s support in DeSoto County grows with endorsement of Bryan Beswick,
Southwest Florida Water Management District Governing Board member.

The Ben Albritton Campaign today announced the endorsement of Bryan Beswick, Secretary of the Governing Board of the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD). Beswick is the grove manager of Premier Citrus Management LLC. Albritton is seeking the District 26 seat in the Florida Senate, currently held by Denise Grimsley, who is running for Commissioner of Agriculture.
“Ben Albritton is clearly the best choice to represent us in the Florida Senate,” said Beswick. “He understands our agricultural community and how important it is to make sure Florida has a regulatory framework that supports growers and all entrepreneurs. He has proven himself as an effective and conservative legislator with integrity, and I’m proud to support him.”
A Polk County native, Beswick has more than 20 years of experience in the citrus industry. He has held leadership roles in the DeSoto County Farm Bureau and Peace River Valley Citrus Growers Association. He was appointed to the SWFWMD’s Governing Board in 2013 and was reappointed in 2016 and 2017, with his current term expiring in 2020. He was previously a member of the board from 2008 to 2012.
“I’m honored to have Bryan Beswick on our team,” said Albritton. “I really appreciate his endorsement of our campaign, and I look forward to working with him and other DeSoto County leaders to make sure our area has the kind of strong leadership we need in Tallahassee.”
In 2010, Albritton was elected to the Florida House of Representatives, where he has been a staunch advocate for entrepreneurs and children in Florida’s foster care system. He is also known for his strong conservative record on Second Amendment rights and protection for the unborn.
Albritton is the Chair of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee and also serves on the Appropriations Committee and the Government Accountability Committee. House Speaker Richard Corcoran recently appointed him to the Select Committee on Hurricane Response and Preparedness. He also currently serves as the Chair of the Polk County Legislative Delegation.
A full list of those endorsing Albritton may be found at BenAlbritton.com.

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Retired DeSoto Sheriff Will Wise Endorses Albritton

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Wise says Albritton is a hardworking conservative leader
who backs law enforcement and stays true to his roots.

The Ben Albritton Campaign today announced the endorsement of Will Wise, retired Sheriff of DeSoto County. Wise was elected Sheriff in 2008 and served two terms. Albritton is seeking the District 26 seat in the Florida Senate, currently held by Denise Grimsley, who is running for Commissioner of Agriculture.
“Ben Albritton’s time in the Florida House has cemented his reputation as a fine public servant,” said Wise. “I spent my entire career working to keep our communities safe, and I know Ben understands how important it is to put resources behind law enforcement. I’m proud to support Ben because I know he will keep working hard in Tallahassee, but he won’t forget where he came from. He is a true conservative and a true servant leader.”
Wise’s law enforcement career began in 1974 in the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office, where he started as a patrol deputy and was later promoted to sergeant. After joining the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office in 1987, he served as lieutenant, captain, and major chief deputy before his election as Sheriff. A native of Avon Park, he has been active in numerous law enforcement and community organizations, including the Florida Sheriffs Association and Florida Farm Bureau.
“I’m honored to have the support of a respected leader like Sheriff Wise,” said Albritton. “He worked hard for the citizens of DeSoto County, and that’s exactly what I intend to do in the Florida Senate. It means a lot to have folks like him on our team.”
In 2010, Albritton was elected to the Florida House of Representatives, where he has been a staunch advocate for entrepreneurs and children in Florida’s foster care system. He is also known for his strong conservative record on Second Amendment rights and protection for the unborn.
Albritton is the Chair of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee and also serves on the Appropriations Committee and the Government Accountability Committee. House Speaker Richard Corcoran recently appointed him to the Select Committee on Hurricane Response and Preparedness. He also currently serves as the Chair of the Polk County Legislative Delegation.
A full list of those endorsing Albritton may be found at www.BenAlbritton.com. 

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Lindsay Harrington Endorses Albritton

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The former Speaker Pro Tempore of the Florida House says Albritton
is well positioned to be an effective member of the Florida Senate.

The Ben Albritton Campaign today announced the endorsement by former State Representative and Punta Gorda Mayor Lindsay Harrington. Harrington served in the Florida House from 1996 to 2004, including as Speaker Pro Tempore. Albritton is seeking the District 26 seat in the Florida Senate, currently held by Denise Grimsley, who is running for Commissioner of Agriculture.
“Ben Albritton has proven himself in the Florida House, and he is ready to be an effective Senator for District 26,” said Harrington. “He is well respected by his colleagues, and he has a thorough understanding of the district’s most pressing issues. That combination makes for strong leadership in the legislature, and I’m proud to endorse him.”
Harrington has been an active leader in the Charlotte County community for nearly 40 years. He is a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker Commercial Real Estate. He has been part of the Charlotte County Republican Executive Committee and served as a State Committeeman. Harrington served in the United States Air Force, both on active duty and in the Reserve, for 14 years.
“I’m honored to have Lindsay Harrington’s support,” said Albritton. “He has served Charlotte County with distinction for many years, and I look forward to working with him to make sure its residents continue to be well represented in Tallahassee.”
In 2010, Albritton was elected to the Florida House of Representatives, where he has been a staunch advocate for entrepreneurs and children in Florida’s foster care system. He is also known for his strong conservative record on Second Amendment rights and protection for the unborn.
Albritton is the Chair of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee and also serves on the Appropriations Committee and the Government Accountability Committee. House Speaker Richard Corcoran recently appointed him to the Select Committee on Hurricane Response and Preparedness. He also currently serves as the Chair of the Polk County Legislative Delegation.
A full list of those endorsing Albritton may be found at www.BenAlbritton.com.

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Bartow Leaders Endorse Albritton

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Albritton continues to receive widespread support across District 26 with newest endorsements from Bartow Mayor James Clements and Commissioner Trish Pfeiffer

The Ben Albritton for Senate Campaign today announced the endorsements of Bartow Mayor James F. Clements and Commissioner Trish Pfeiffer, immediate past mayor. They join a number of community leaders and elected officials throwing their support behind Albritton’s bid for Senate District 26. The seat is currently represented by Denise Grimsley, who is running for Commissioner of Agriculture.
“Ben Albritton has served in the Florida House with vision and integrity,” said Mayor Clements. “He’s been there for Bartow when we truly needed his support. I’m confident he’ll continue to deliver for us in the Florida Senate.”
Clements holds Seat 1 At Large on the Bartow City Commission. First elected in 2006, his current term runs through April of next year.
“In today’s world of political uncertainty, fear of escalating tensions, and self interest, it is important to put our faith in someone that has the moral and ethical heart that will represent us and not forget about our interest here at home,” said Pfeiffer. “I may not always agree with the eventual outcomes of the tough decisions that political leaders are charged with making, but a well informed, educated leader and a candidate that remembers where he came from and who he represents makes it an easy choice. That is why I am endorsing Ben Albritton for the Florida State Senate.”
Pfeiffer represents Seat 4 At Large on the Bartow City Commission and is the immediate past mayor. She took office in May of 2014, and her current term expires in April of 2020.
“I’m grateful for the support of dedicated public servants like Mayor Clements and Commissioner Pfeiffer,” said Albritton. “I look forward to working with them and other local leaders across District 26 to make sure issues of importance in their communities receive the attention they need and deserve in Tallahassee.”
In 2010, Albritton was elected to the Florida House of Representatives, where he has been a staunch advocate for entrepreneurs and children in Florida’s foster care system. He is also known for his strong conservative record on Second Amendment rights and protection for the unborn. He is the Chair of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee and Vice Chair of the House Natural Resources and Public Lands Subcommittee. He also sits on the Appropriations Committee, the Agriculture and Property Rights Subcommittee, and the Government Accountability Committee, and he currently serves as the Chair of the Polk County Legislative Delegation.
A full list of those endorsing Ben Albritton may be found at www.BenAlbritton.com.

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Highlands Sheriff Paul Blackman Endorses Albritton

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Momentum for Albritton continues to grow as Blackman joins
numerous local leaders already backing his bid for the Florida Senate.

The Ben Albritton for Senate Campaign today announced the endorsement of Highlands County Sheriff Paul Blackman. He adds his support for Albritton to a growing list of elected officials from across Senate District 26, which is currently represented by Denise Grimsley, who is running for Commissioner of Agriculture.
“Denise Grimsley has been a wonderful public servant for Highlands County. She leaves some big shoes to fill, but there is no doubt in my mind that Ben Albritton is the best person for the job,” said Blackman. “Ben values and respects people. He knows our area and its needs. I look forward to Highlands County continuing to have outstanding representation in the Florida Senate with Ben Albritton.”
Blackman was elected Highlands County Sheriff in November of last year after a lifelong career in law enforcement that began in 1993. Prior to his election as Sheriff, he had served as Captain of the Sheriff’s Office since 2006.
“I truly appreciate Sheriff Blackman’s endorsement,” said Albritton. “Law enforcement is one of the pillars of strong communities, and I look forward to working with him to support law enforcement and keep Highlands County residents safe.”
Other local and community leaders also backing Albritton include U.S. Representatives Dennis Ross and Tom Rooney; State Attorney Brian Haas; State Representative Mike Grant; Charlotte County Commissioners Ken Doherty, Joe Tiseo, and Bill Truex; Punta Gorda Mayor Rachel Keesling; former State Representative Ken Roberson; and Florida Citrus Commissioners V.C. Hollingsworth, Marty McKenna, Ned Hancock and Mike Garavaglia.
In 2010, Albritton was elected to the Florida House of Representatives, where he has been a staunch advocate for entrepreneurs and children in Florida’s foster care system. He is also known for his strong conservative record on Second Amendment rights and protection for the unborn. He is the Chair of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee and Vice Chair of the House Natural Resources and Public Lands Subcommittee. He also sits on the Appropriations Committee, the Agriculture and Property Rights Subcommittee, and the Government Accountability Committee, and he currently serves as the Chair of the Polk County Legislative Delegation.

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Florida Citrus Mutual Endorses Albritton

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Florida Citrus Mutual today endorsed Ben Albritton for the District 26 seat in the Florida Senate, calling him the “clear citrus choice.” In case you missed it, their announcement is below.

FCM Endorses Albritton in District 26 Senate Race

Florida Citrus Mutual, the state’s largest citrus trade organization, announced Monday a strong endorsement of Florida Rep. Ben Albritton in the District 26 state Senate race.
FCM’s Board of Directors, comprised of growers from across the state, unanimously supported the Albritton endorsement.
“As the District 56 House Representative in Tallahassee for the past seven years, Ben has been our industry’s horse supporting us on everything from research and marketing to regulatory issues,” said Michael W. Sparks, executive VP/CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual. “He’s actually the only two-time winner of FCM’s Champion of Citrus award. I can’t overstate what a help he has been to Florida citrus and I’m sure he will continue that tradition in the Senate.”
District 26 encompasses parts or all of Polk, Highlands, Hardee, DeSoto, Charlotte, Glades, Okeechobee and Lee counties. The seat is being vacated by Senator Denise Grimsley who is running for Commissioner of Agriculture.
“Representative Albritton is the clear citrus choice in this race,” said John Barben, a Highlands County grower who serves as FCM president. “As a citrus grower himself Ben is uniquely qualified to advocate for us in Tallahassee.”
“But even beyond citrus I think he will be a terrific Senator for the people, businesses and families of District 26.”
The Florida citrus industry creates a $8.6 billion annual economic impact, employing nearly 46,000 people, and covering about 500,000 acres. Founded in 1948, Florida Citrus Mutual is the state’s largest citrus grower organization. For more information, visit www.flcitrusmutual.com.

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Charlotte Officials Endorse Albritton

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A cross-section of Charlotte County elected officials are the latest area leaders
to coalesce around Albritton as the right choice for the Florida Senate.

The Ben Albritton Campaign today announced the support of several Charlotte County elected officials. State Representative Mike Grant; County Commissioners Ken Doherty, Joe Tiseo, and Bill Truex; former State Representative Ken Roberson; and Punta Gorda Mayor Rachel Keesling are all lining up behind Albritton’s bid for the District 26 seat in the Florida Senate.
The Charlotte officials are part of a growing list of local leaders at all levels of government who are backing Albritton. They join U.S. Representatives Dennis Ross and Tom Rooney as well as State Attorney Brian Haas, who have also recently endorsed Albritton.
“Ben Albritton’s proven track record of thoughtful, conservative leadership makes him the clear choice for District 26 in the Florida Senate,” said Commissioner Truex. “We know we can count on him to continue to treat his constituents with respect and make decisions that will benefit the people of Charlotte County.”
Truex and Doherty were both elected to the County Commission in 2012 and re-elected in 2016, with Truex elected as Chair three years in a row. Tiseo was elected for the first time last year.
“I have worked with Ben and know his integrity and commitment to doing public service the right way,” said Grant. “With Ben in the Florida Senate, his constituents can be confident they have someone in Tallahassee who will always put their best interest first.”
Grant was elected last year to represent Charlotte County in the District 75 seat in the Florida House after having previously served in the House from 2004 to 2008. Roberson served in the Florida House from 2008 to 2016.
“After having watched Ben Albritton’s career in the House, I’m convinced we can count on him in the Florida Senate,” said Roberson.
“I look forward to working with him to keep Punta Gorda and all of our communities strong,” said Keesling.
Keesling was elected to the Punta Gorda City Council in 2011 and as mayor in 2013. She and her husband have lived in Punta Gorda for almost 25 years.
“Charlotte County is fortunate to have such fine men and women in public service,” said Albritton. “I am honored to have their support, and I look forward to working with them on policies that will strengthen families and our economy.”
In 2010, Albritton was elected to the Florida House of Representatives, where he has been a staunch advocate for entrepreneurs and children in Florida’s foster care system. He is also known for his strong conservative record on Second Amendment rights and protection for the unborn. He is the Chair of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee and Vice Chair of the House Natural Resources and Public Lands Subcommittee. He also sits on the Appropriations Committee, the Agriculture and Property Rights Subcommittee, and the Government Accountability Committee, and he currently serves as the Chair of the Polk County Legislative Delegation.
With Grimsley’s decision to not seek re-election, District 26, where Republicans outnumber Democrats 43 to 34 percent, is an open seat. Centered in Florida’s Heartland, the district covers parts of Charlotte, Lee, and Polk Counties, as well as all of DeSoto, Glades, Hardee, Highlands, and Okeechobee Counties.

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Haas endorses Albritton

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State Attorney Brian Haas is the latest elected official who says Albritton
is the right leader to succeed Denise Grimsley in the Florida Senate.

The Ben Albritton Campaign today announced the endorsement of Brian Haas, State Attorney for the 10th Judicial Circuit. Albritton is seeking the District 26 seat in the Florida Senate, currently held by Denise Grimsley, who is running for Commissioner of Agriculture.
“Ben has the right convictions and values to serve our area well,” said Haas. “He believes, as I do, in holding criminals accountable for their actions to keep our community a safe place to live, work, and visit. He also understands the importance of early intervention to keep our youth on the right track I look forward to Ben’s continued leadership in the Florida Senate.”
Haas was elected as State Attorney in 2016 after previously serving as Chief Assistant State Attorney under Jerry Hill. He is a graduate of Bartow High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from Flagler College in St. Augustine and a law degree from the University of Florida.
Haas has prosecuted crimes ranging from misdemeanors to capital felonies and was assigned to the Special Prosecution Division at the State Attorney’s Office, where he prosecuted cases involving sexual crimes against children. He has also represented the State of Florida in many jury trials, including the prosecution of violent crimes. Florida’s 10th Judicial Circuit covers Polk, Highlands and Hardee Counties.
“Brian Haas is an outstanding servant-leader,” said Albritton. “He values people and treats everyone with the fairness and respect they deserve. I greatly appreciate Brian’s endorsement and look forward to continuing to work with him for the betterment of our area.”
Haas’s support for Albritton comes on the heels of the recent endorsements by Congressmen Dennis Ross and Tom Rooney.
In 2010, Albritton was elected to the Florida House of Representatives, where he has been a staunch advocate for entrepreneurs and children in Florida’s foster care system. He is also known for his strong conservative record on Second Amendment rights and protection for the unborn. He is the Chair of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee and Vice Chair of the House Natural Resources and Public Lands Subcommittee. He also sits on the Appropriations Committee, the Agriculture and Property Rights Subcommittee, and the Government Accountability Committee, and he currently serves as the Chair of the Polk County Legislative Delegation.
With Grimsley’s decision to not seek re-election, District 26, where Republicans outnumber Democrats 43 to 34 percent, is an open seat. Centered in Florida’s Heartland, the district covers parts of Charlotte, Lee, and Polk Counties, as well as all of DeSoto, Glades, Hardee, Highlands, and Okeechobee Counties.

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Citrus Leaders Back Albritton for Florida Senate

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Florida Citrus Commissioners say Albritton
is best prepared to represent District 26.

The Ben Albritton Campaign today announced the endorsement of four members of the Florida Citrus Commission (FCC), including its chairman and vice chairman. Albritton is seeking the District 26 seat in the Florida Senate, currently held by Denise Grimsley, who is running for Commissioner of Agriculture.
“Citrus is the heart of District 26, and as a grower and former board member, Ben Albritton has a unique understanding of the importance and needs of our industry,” said Marty McKenna, Chair of the FCC.
“In the Florida House, Ben Albritton has been a champion of Florida agriculture,” added Mike Garavaglia, FCC Vice Chair. “There is no doubt he will continue to be an effective advocate for citrus and the entire agriculture industry in the Senate.”
V.C. Hollingsworth III and Ned Hancock, FCC members, agreed: “We know Ben Albritton to be a man of his word. He is a passionate and enthusiastic representative of Florida agriculture and deeply enjoys serving our state and its people. We look forward to his continued leadership in the Florida Senate.”
“I am honored that Florida citrus leaders are entrusting me with their support,” said Albritton. “Florida citrus and all of agriculture face so many threats that could have devastating effects on Florida’s Heartland. In the Florida Senate, I will work tirelessly to defend our vital industry and keep it a job-producing engine for our region.”
In 2010, Albritton was elected to the Florida House of Representatives, where he has been a staunch advocate for entrepreneurs and children in Florida’s foster care system. He is also known for his strong conservative record on Second Amendment rights and protection for the unborn. He is the Chair of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee and Vice Chair of the House Natural Resources and Public Lands Subcommittee. He also sits on the Appropriations Committee, the Agriculture and Property Rights Subcommittee, and the Government Accountability Committee, and he currently serves as the Chair of the Polk County Legislative Delegation.
With Grimsley’s decision to not seek re-election, District 26, where Republicans outnumber Democrats 43 to 34 percent, is an open seat. Centered in Florida’s Heartland, the district covers parts of Charlotte, Lee, and Polk Counties, as well as all of DeSoto, Glades, Hardee, Highlands, and Okeechobee Counties.

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Ross Endorses Albritton for Florida Senate

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Congressman Dennis Ross says Ben Albritton is a principled
conservative who will serve District 26 well in the Florida Senate.

The Ben Albritton Campaign today announced the endorsement of U.S. Representative Dennis Ross, who serves Florida’s 15th District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Albritton is seeking the District 26 seat in the Florida Senate, currently held by Denise Grimsley, who is running for Commissioner of Agriculture. Ross joins his colleague, U.S. Representative Tom Rooney, who recently announced he is also backing Albritton.
“Ben Albritton is a committed and consistent conservative,” said Ross. “He has a track record of principled leadership in the Florida House, and his integrity and genuine concern for people have served his constituents well. I look forward to continuing working with him when he is in the Florida Senate.”
Ross was elected to Congress in 2010 after four terms in the Florida House. He serves in House leadership as Senior Deputy Majority Whip and on the prestigious Financial Services Committee. He is Vice Chair of the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee and serves on the Oversight and Government Reform Committee . His district includes parts of Hillsborough, Lake, and Polk Counties.
“Congressman Dennis Ross is an outstanding public servant, and I am honored to have his support,” said Albritton. “Throughout his career at both the state and national levels, he has been a stalwart conservative, and I look forward to continuing to work together on policies to strengthen our area and our state.”
In 2010, Albritton was elected to the Florida House of Representatives, where he has been a staunch advocate for entrepreneurs and children in Florida’s foster care system. He is also known for his strong conservative record on Second Amendment rights and protection for the unborn. He is the Chair of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee and Vice Chair of the House Natural Resources and Public Lands Subcommittee. He also sits on the Appropriations Committee, the Agriculture and Property Rights Subcommittee, and the Government Accountability Committee, and he currently serves as the Chair of the Polk County Legislative Delegation.
With Grimsley’s decision to not seek re-election, District 26, where Republicans outnumber Democrats 43 to 34 percent, is an open seat. Centered in Florida’s Heartland, the district covers parts of Charlotte, Lee, and Polk Counties, as well as all of DeSoto, Glades, Hardee, Highlands, and Okeechobee Counties.

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