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.
