Rep. Jim Boyd says Ray Blacklidge’s private sector
experience makes him the best candidate for District 69
The Ray Blacklidge Campaign today announced the endorsement of Representative Jim Boyd, who currently holds the District 71 seat in the Florida House and serves on Speaker Richard Corcoran’s leadership team. Blacklidge, a Republican, is running to represent nearby District 69.
“Ray Blacklidge will be a strong leader for our area in Tallahassee,” said Boyd, “His business background and conservative convictions combine perfectly to position him to successfully drive legislation that will keep our economy growing. I’m proud to support him.”
Boyd was elected to the Florida House in 2010. Currently, he is the Chair of the Commerce Committee and serves on the Appropriations and Rules and Policy Committees. During last year’s legislative session, he was Chair of the Ways and Means Committee, which was charged with giving as much back to taxpayers as possible in tax cuts. From 2014 to 2016, Boyd was the House Deputy Majority Leader and Majority Whip. He is an insurance agent in Bradenton.
“I’m honored to have the support of Representative Boyd,” said Blacklidge. “During his time in Tallahassee, he has distinguished himself as a capable legislator who leads with integrity. Even though he faces term limits this year, I look forward to continuing to work with him and other local leaders to move our region forward.”
Blacklidge has an extensive background as an entrepreneur with a record of protecting consumers and fighting fraud. He currently works as an insurance executive and attorney in the management of a Florida-based insurance company.
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.
