Biden for President
March 16, 2020

More than a Dozen Florida Leaders Endorse Joe Biden Ahead of Tomorrow’s Presidential Primary

Today, more than a dozen Florida leaders announced their endorsement of Joe Biden for President of the United States including, Palm Beach County State Attorney David Aronberg, Broward County Mayor Dale Holness, Miami-Dade County Commissioner Jean Monestime, State Representative Margaret Good and Former State Representative and Florida Legislative Black Caucus Chair Alan Williams. 
 
“Moments like this make it incredibly clear that we need a leader who will put people over party and lead by example,” said David Aronberg, Palm Beach County State Attorney. “That is why I’m supporting Joe Biden for President. Joe has been transparent, direct, and a force for unity during this challenging time. I trust Joe Biden to be a president for all Americans.”
 
“My community is looking for a leader who can make government a force for good, especially in times of crisis and uncertainty,” said Broward County Mayor Dale Holness. “They want someone who will deliver for them. Most importantly, they want someone who will treat all of us with the respect and dignity we all deserve. I know that someone is Joe Biden. Throughout his campaign, he has shown he has both the heart to restore and reunify our country and the experience to shepherd our country through moments like this. I trust Joe Biden to lead for all of us and endorse him wholeheartedly for President.”
 
“I cannot think of a more important message at this moment than the idea of us being stronger when we work together. Joe Biden has never lost sight of the heart and soul of America and has run a campaign that is focused on what unites us, not divides us,” said Miami-Dade County Commissioner Jean Monestime. “When we are facing problems as big as the ones we currently are, we need that call for unity. I trust Joe because he sees the best in us. As our president, we can beat this moment and come out of it stronger than ever.”
 
“Tomorrow, many of my fellow Floridians will cast their ballots. I cast mine for Joe Biden,” said State Representative Margaret Good. “Joe Biden is the leader we need to guide us through this challenging moment and unify the country. Joe Biden has heart and will fight for what is right.” 
 
"Today on the eve of the Florida Presidential Preference Primary, I am proud to endorse Joe Biden for President of the United States of America. As a state representative and chair of the Florida Legislative Black Caucus during the Obama-Biden Administration, I witnessed firsthand Joe's strong leadership, his steady hand in the face of adversity,” said former State Representative and Florida Legislative Black Caucus Chair Alan Williams. ”He has shown time and time again that he is a leader we can count on to fully fund our Historically Black Colleges and Universities and minority-serving institutions, protect our coastal communities, ensure that our military communities thrive, and will see to it that Florida and the United States remains the leader in space exploration, which brings high wage jobs to the Space Coast.”
 
“Today, I’m proud to endorse Joe Biden for President. For six years during the Obama administration, I worked alongside Vice President Biden, witnessing first hand his principled leadership at home and abroad,” said former State Department Official and 2018 Democratic Nominee for U.S. Congress, FL-18. “At a time when the very foundations of our democracy are under assault and when the moral fabric of our nation is stretched thin, I am confident that Joe Biden will serve our country with the decency, dignity, and respect that we all deserve. And as a member of the LGBT community, I know that Joe Biden will strive every day to deliver on the promise of justice and equality for all of us. This November, we have the opportunity to turn the page of history towards a better future for our country. Together with Joe Biden we can deliver the change that we need.”
 
Today’s endorsements include: 

  • Dave Aronberg, Palm Beach County State Attorney
  • Lauren Baer, Former State Department Official and Congressional Candidate
  • State Representative Margaret Good, Sarasota
  • State Representative Adam Hattersley, Tampa
  • Mayor Dale Holness, Broward County 
  • Larry Lee, Former State Representative 
  • Commissioner Melissa McKinlay, Palm Beach 
  • Commissioner Sean Mitchell, Saint Lucie 
  • Commissioner Jean Monestime, Miami-Dade 
  • State Senator Darryl Rouson, Tampa
  • Commissioner Joshua Simmons, Coral Springs 
  • Robert Wexler, Former Congressman 
  • Alan Williams, Former State Representative and Former Chair of the Legislative Black Caucus 
  • Mayor Pro Tem Dianne Williams-Cox, Tallahassee

As Floridians head to vote tomorrow, this slate of endorsements shows the momentum and strength that Biden has across the Sunshine State. This slate joins more than 60 leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, Orlando, Tampa, and St. Petersburg Mayors, and Florida’s entire Democratic delegation to Congress, including Donna Shalala, Debbie Murcarsel-Powell, Kathy Castor, Charlie Crist, Val Demings, Ted Deutch, Stephanie Murphy, Lois Frankel, Alcee Hastings, Al Lawson, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Darren Soto, and Frederica Wilson. Biden for President has previously announced more than 2,100 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals.
 
Biden’s endorsements showcase the diversity of support for Vice President Biden in Florida and across the country, as well as the trust that these leaders have in his ability to beat Donald Trump, restore the soul of this nation, rebuild the middle class, and bring the country together. 


The health and safety of our staff, supporters, and the general public is Biden for President’s number one priority. During this pandemic, we are calling on all voters to follow social distancing guidelines to slow the spread of COVID-19. Officials in Florida are taking precautions to ensure you can exercise your right to vote while following social distancing guidelines, including measures to decrease density at polling locations. If you can, please vote by mail. If you vote in person, please keep social distancing and public health best practices in mind. Learn more at joebiden.com/voter-guide

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March 15, 2020 

ICYMI: Tallahassee Area Officials Encourage Floridians to Vote for Joe Biden in Tallahassee Democrat Op-Ed 

Yesterday, six Tallahassee area officials including Leon County Commissioners Rick Minor, Bill Proctor, and Kristin Dozier, State Representatives Loranne Ausley and Ramon Alexander, and Tallahassee City Commissioner Dianne Williams-Cox penned an op-ed in the Tallahassee Democrat urging Floridians to vote for Joe Biden on Tuesday. This is the first time Commissioners Dozier and Williams-Cox have made their support for Joe Biden public. 

In their op-ed, these leaders cite Biden’s ability to unite Americans and deliver on the issues they care most about, as well as the fact that Biden will be a President that Americans can look to and trust during moments of uncertainty and crisis. 

Tallahassee Democrat: 6 local officials: Join us in voting for Joe Biden in Florida’s primary
By Ramon Alexander, Loranne Ausley, Kristin Dozier, Rick Minor, Bill Proctor and Dianne Williams-Cox, 3/14/20

This Tuesday, Florida Democrats will have an opportunity to cast their votes in our state’s presidential primary election. We enthusiastically support former Vice President Joe Biden and we encourage all Democrats to choose him as the party’s nominee.

Our country is in desperate need of strong leadership and restored credibility in the White House. Biden is the candidate who will bring experienced, thoughtful leadership at a time when our nation’s future depends on it.

The coronavirus crisis has shown us – in stark terms – the importance of stable leadership and proven experience during times of national emergency. Over the past several days, Donald Trump has spread confusion about coronavirus testing and has repeatedly contradicted health experts within his own administration. In contrast, Biden has released a coronavirus response plan that is clear-eyed about the challenges, straightforward about the sacrifices we all must make to slow the spread of the disease, and reassures Americans that we can get through this together.

To be sure, this primary race has generated a fervent policy debate. Sen. Bernie Sanders has highlighted serious problems facing our nation: crushing student loan debt, a health care system that continues to deny millions of Americans quality, affordable care, and the existential crisis of climate change. We agree these are critical and urgent challenges, and we believe Biden is most capable of unifying the Democratic Party, winning the presidency and then working with Congress to tackle these issues.

Finally, we believe the character of our nation’s president is paramount. Trump’s narcissism, hateful tweets, repeated lies and attacks on the media and those who disagree with him do not reflect the behavior we expect from our chief executive. Biden is a fundamentally decent human being who believes every American must be treated with respect, dignity and compassion. We need a president who will lift people up, not tear them down.

This election is a battle for the survival of America’s ideals. We endorse Biden as the best person to bring integrity back to the White House, rebuild our nation’s middle class, improve our health care system, address climate change and demonstrate to our allies that America can be trusted. Just as important, Biden will work to heal the divisions that have been exacerbated by Trump’s slash and burn presidency.

For these reasons we encourage every Florida Democrat to vote for Biden Tuesday. In these turbulent times, our future depends on it.

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March 15, 2020

Florida Congresswoman Donna Shalala Endorses Joe Biden Ahead of Tuesday’s Presidential Primary

Biden Now Has Support from Florida’s Entire Democratic Delegation

This morning on CBS Miami’s “Facing South Florida with Jim Defede,  South Florida Congresswoman Donna Shalala endorsed Vice President Joe Biden. In her announcement, Shalala cited her close working relationship with Biden during her tenure as U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, as well as Biden being the “no brainer” choice for South Florida residents. Shalala’s endorsement comes two days before the Florida Presidential Preference Primary.

“Joe Biden and I have worked side by side in some of the most important fights of our time, from expanding access to affordable health care to creating better opportunities for working families,” said Congresswoman Donna Shalala. “I know firsthand that he is the candidate with the experience and vision to actually deliver on behalf of the American people. Making Donald Trump a one-term president is absolutely critical. As we approach the general election, the stakes couldn't be higher. The next four years will decide whether we tackle climate change and build a cleaner, greener future; whether we protect the future of the Supreme Court, and with it, fundamental voting rights and reproductive freedom; whether we bring our country together to unite in hope, not hate. This is Joe Biden's vision for America: one where, as he says, ‘our best days still lie ahead.’ That's a vision I couldn't be prouder to support.”
 
With Shalala’s endorsement, Biden has the support of the entire Florida Democratic congressional delegation, including Debbie Murcarsel-Powell, Stephanie Murphy, Kathy Castor, Charlie Crist, Val Demings, Ted Deutch, Lois Frankel, Alcee Hastings, Al Lawson, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Darren Soto, and Frederica Wilson. Biden for President has previously announced more than 2,100 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals.
 
Biden’s endorsements showcase the diversity and strength of support for Vice President Biden in Florida and across the country, as well as the trust that these leaders have in his ability to beat Donald Trump, restore the soul of this nation, rebuild the middle class, and bring the country together. 

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March 11, 2020

Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Nikki Fried Endorses Joe Biden 

Today, Florida’s only statewide elected Democrat, Commissioner of Agriculture Nikki Fried, endorsed Vice President Joe Biden. In 2018, Fried became the first Democrat to win statewide in Florida since 2006.
 
“This is the most important election of our lifetime. It’s so important that we are united together as one party, one state, and one country to defeat Donald Trump in November. I know that the time for that unity is right now – and the candidate to unite behind is Joe Biden,” said Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried. “Joe is bringing together a diverse coalition that reflects America’s greatness. And Joe’s record of selfless service is exactly what we need to restore America’s moral compass, heart, and leadership at home and abroad. I’m excited and proud to stand with him today.”
 
Fried’s endorsement shows the momentum and strength that Biden has across the Sunshine State as Floridians vote early. Fried joins more than 60 leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, Orlando, Tampa, and St. Petersburg Mayors, and current Members of Congress Debbie Murcarsel-Powell, Kathy Castor, Charlie Crist, Val Demings, Ted Deutch, Lois Frankel, Alcee Hastings, Al Lawson, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Darren Soto, and Frederica Wilson. Biden for President has previously announced more than 2,100 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals.
 
Biden’s endorsements showcase the diversity of support for Vice President Biden in Florida and across the country, as well as the trust that these leaders have in his ability to beat Donald Trump, restore the soul of this nation, rebuild the middle class, and bring the country together. 

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March 11, 2020

Nearly 20 Palm Beach County Elected Officials Endorse Joe Biden 

 Today, with less than one week until Florida’s March 17 primary, nearly 20 elected officials from across Palm Beach County join Greenacres Mayor Joel Flores, Palm Beach Gardens Mayor Mark Marciano and Belle Glade Mayor Steve Wilson in endorsing Joe Biden for President of the United States. 
 
"Joe Biden is a trusted, battle-tested, and unifying messenger best positioned to fight to expand the Democratic coalition here in Palm Beach County, statewide, and nationally,” said Greenacres Mayor Joel Flores. “I am proud to endorse Joe Biden alongside so many Palm Beach County leaders, all who know what it takes to win here in Florida."
 
"At this important crossroad in our country's history, we need a leader who can bring the country together and change the tone of political discourse,” said Palm Beach Gardens Vice Mayor Rachelle Litt. “Joe Biden has repeatedly shown that you can have a big heart, be sensitive to the needs and fears of the people, be respectful to your peers and still get the job done.  I'm proud to support Joe Biden.”
 
“It matters who we nominate to go up against Donald Trump,” said Westlake Vice Mayor Katrina Long-Robinson. “We cannot fight polarization and division with anything but a message of unity, strength, and heart. Joe will focus on what we have in common rather than what separates us and most importantly, deliver for working families in Florida, like he has time and time again. With Joe Biden as president, we will be able to expand access to health care, pass long overdue gun safety legislation, build an economy that works for everyone, and so much more.”
 
“Joe Biden began his career in local politics and he has never lost sight of his roots,” said Village of Wellington Councilman John T. McGovern. “His politics are community-driven, and his campaign’s message speaks to what we as community leaders try and do every day: bring people together. I am confident that as president, Joe will be able to heal our divisions and reunify the country.”
 
"I trust Joe to deliver for our families not in a distant future, but on day one in the White House,” said Boca Raton City Council Member Andy Thomson. “When it comes to health care, livable wages, and keeping our communities safe, we can’t rely on just plans; we need someone who can follow through and deliver. That person is Joe Biden, a proven leader who will be a president for all Americans.”
 
Today’s endorsements include: 

  • Joseph D. Anderson, Port of Palm Beach Commissioner
  • Marcia Andrews, Palm Beach County School Board Member
  • MJ “Chip” Block, Jupiter Inlet Colony Vice Mayor
  • Dr. Jean Enright, Port of Palm Beach Commissioner 
  • Christy Fox, West Palm Beach City Commission-Elect
  • Omari Hardy, Lake Worth City Commissioner 
  • Justin Katz, Boynton Beach Vice Mayor
  • Ilan Kaufer, Jupiter Town Councilman
  • John McGovern, Village of Wellington Councilman
  • Kashamba Miller-Anderson, Riviera Beach City Councilwoman
  • Rachelle Litt, Palm Beach Gardens Vice Mayor
  • Katrina Long, West Lake Vice Mayor  
  • Cory Neering, West Palm Beach City Commissioner
  • Jan Radusky, Royal Palm Beach Vice Mayor
  • Christina Romulus, Boynton Beach City Commissioner
  • Andy Thomson, Boca Raton City Councilman

Today’s new endorsements show the momentum and strength that Biden has as Palm Beach County residents vote early. This slate of local elected officials join more than 60 leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, and the three Members of Congress that represent Palm Beach County: Lois Frankel, Ted Deutch, and Alcee Hastings. Nationally, Biden for President has previously announced more than 2,100 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals.
 
Biden’s endorsements showcase the diversity of support for Vice President Biden in Florida and across the country, as well as the trust that these leaders have in his ability to beat Donald Trump, restore the soul of this nation, rebuild the middle class, and bring the country together. 

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March 10, 2020 

15 Florida Mayors Endorse Joe Biden

With just one week until Florida’s March 17 primary, 15 current and former mayors across the Sunshine State announced their endorsements of  Joe Biden for President of the United States, including mayors from Orlando, Tampa, St. Petersburg and Miami Beach. 

“As a Senator, Joe Biden dedicated his life to improving ours and, as Vice President of the United States, he fought for policies that made our lives better and our country stronger,” said Kissimmee Mayor Jose Alvarez. “Vice President Joe Biden and President Obama worked together to end the Great Recession, expand healthcare to millions of Americans, made climate change a national imperative, stood up for Dreamers, and stood up to those who wish to do us harm. But this election, possibly the most consequential in our nation’s history, is about more than policies. It’s about reclaiming our moral leadership on the world stage, and dignified leadership here at home. It’s about unifying our nation and standing with nations that share our core values. It’s about equal opportunity, equal rights, and equal justice for all. Through his life’s work, Joe Biden has demonstrated time and time again that he is that leader, which is why I support Joe Biden for President.”

"In Orange County and across America, we know Joe Biden,” said Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings. “Whether its climate change, health care, gun safety or fighting for the rights of others, the Vice President has proven over the course of his career that he can deliver results. And when we send him back to the White House, it won't be any different. Joe Biden is the right leader for the moment at hand, and I am proud to endorse him."

“In October of 2008 I received a surprise phone call from Joe as the Democratic Leader in the state legislature after working with then Republican Governor Charlie Crist to extend voting hours to alleviate enormous lines of mostly African-American voters looking to vote in a historic election for Barack Obama,” said Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber. “Joe was amazed we were able to work across the aisle and get that done but I explained to him that Governor Crist was a decent man who didn’t like the idea of fellow Floridians not being able to exercise their voting rights. He responded simply, ‘I've found there is decency in most people- and if given the opportunity they will usually choose the right path.’ I’m endorsing Joe Biden because he always looks for and appeals to the best in our nation. As president, he won’t animate or exploit the divisiveness that has torn us apart but will instead bring us together.”

"Joe Biden will bring unparalleled experience and decency to the presidency at a time when it is sorely needed,” said St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman. “Just as President Barack Obama did before him, Joe will provide Americans with a sense of calm while restoring our reputation on the world stage. He had my back in 2017 and I am proud to have his in 2020. I encourage the voters of St. Petersburg and the State of Florida to join me in voting for Joe Biden for President."  

"Florida Democrats have a choice to make on March 17th,” said Chattahoochee Mayor Ann Williams. “For me the choice is easy - Joe Biden is rebuilding the Obama coalition here in the Sunshine State and across the nation on his way to defeating Donald Trump, and restoring the soul of the nation. I'm proud to once again be a part of that coalition and stand with Joe."

Today’s new endorsements include: 

  • Mayor Jose Alvarez, Kissimmee
  • Former Mayor Bob Buckhorn, Tampa
  • Mayor Jerry Demings, Orange County 
  • Mayor Buddy Dyer, Orlando 
  • Mayor Joel Flores, Greenacres 
  • Mayor Dan Gelber, Miami Beach 
  • Mayor Christine Hunschofsky, Parkland 
  • Mayor Rick Kriseman, St. Petersburg
  • Mayor Mark Marciano, Palm Beach Gardens 
  • Mayor Hazelle Rogers, Lauderdale Lakes 
  • Mayor Mike Ryan, Sunrise
  • Mayor Matt Sparks, Oakland
  • Vice Mayor Kanika Tomalin, St. Petersburg
  • Mayor Ann Williams, Chattahoochee
  • Mayor Steve Wilson, Belle Glade

Today’s slate of mayors join more than 50 leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, and current Members of Congress Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, Kathy Castor, Charlie Crist, Val Demings, Ted Deutch, Lois Frankel, Alcee Hastings, Al Lawson, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Darren Soto, and Frederica Wilson. Biden also has the most support from more Members of Congress of any candidate in the race, with more than 80 members backing him. Nationally, Biden for President has previously announced more than 2,100 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals.
 
Biden’s endorsements showcase the diversity of support for Vice President Biden in Florida and across the country, as well as the trust that these leaders have in his ability to beat Donald Trump, restore the soul of this nation, rebuild the middle class, and bring the country together.

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March 9, 2020

ICYMI: Florida Congresswoman Debbie Mucarsel-Powell Endorses Joe Biden 

Today, Florida Congresswoman Debbie Mucarsel-Powell announced on CNN her endorsement of Joe Biden for President of the United States:
 
“Joe Biden will deliver on the priorities that South Florida cares deeply about,” said Congresswoman Debbie Mucarsel-Powell. “My father was killed by a criminal with a gun, and like so many others in my community who have experienced gun violence, this is deeply personal to me. Joe took on the NRA - twice - and won, leading the fight to pass the Brady background check bill. I know Joe Biden will deliver the results we need, not only on gun violence, but on health care, the environment and foreign policy, because that’s what he’s been doing his whole life.”
 
Murcasel-Powell joins more than 50 leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, and current Members of Congress Kathy Castor, Charlie Crist, Val Demmings, Ted Deutch, Lois Frankel, Alcee Hastings, Al Lawson, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Darren Soto, and Frederica Wilson. Biden also has the most support from more Members of Congress of any candidate in the race, with more than 80 members backing him. Nationally, Biden for President has previously announced more than 1,700 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals.
 
Biden’s endorsements showcase the diversity of support for Vice President Biden in Florida and across the country, as well as the trust that these leaders have in his ability to beat Donald Trump, restore the soul of this nation, rebuild the middle class, and bring the country together.

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March 9, 2020

ICYMI: Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus President Endorses Joe Biden

Yesterday, the Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus President Stephen Gaskill announced his endorsement of Joe Biden. Gaskill’s endorsement came as he delivered opening remarks at the Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus Winter Conference, which Jill Biden attended.
 
Gaskill’s endorsement followed the Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus’ internal survey, which showed Biden receiving  84% of the vote from its membership.
 
On Friday, Vice President Biden released his plan to advance LGBTQ+ equality in America and around the world.
 
Gaskill join more than 50 leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, and current Members of Congress Kathy Castor, Charlie Crist, Val Demmings, Ted Deutch, Lois Frankel, Alcee Hastings, Al Lawson, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Darren Soto, and Frederica Wilson. Biden also has the most support from more Members of Congress of any candidate in the race, with more than 80 members backing him. Nationally, Biden for President has previously announced more than 1,700 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals.
 
Biden’s endorsements showcase the diversity of support for Vice President Biden in Florida and across the country, as well as the trust that these leaders have in his ability to beat Donald Trump, restore the soul of this nation, rebuild the middle class, and bring the country together.

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March 6, 2020

Joe Biden’s Support in Florida Grows With More Than 20 New Endorsements 

New Endorsements Include State Lawmakers and Community Leaders 

With less than two weeks to the Florida Primary, Biden for President announced the endorsements of more than 20 elected officials and community leaders across the state, including State Representative Loranne Ausley, State Representative Kamia Brown, Former State Senator Arthenia Joyner, State Representative Kionne McGhee, former State Representative and 2018 Democratic Nominee for Attorney General Sean Shaw, and State Senator Annette Taddeo.
 
“I am proud and excited to endorse Vice President Joe Biden because he will unite our country and heal the division that has plagued our nation the last three years,” said State Senator Annette Taddeo of Kendall. “Joe Biden will lead decisively and with an agenda that gives every person a real shot to achieve their American Dream. Equally important is Joe Biden’s foreign policy acumen, which is badly needed at a time when Latin America faces growing threats from brutal dictators who are destroying democracy in the region. I am excited and ready to campaign across Florida to ensure the Vice President carries Florida with its 29 electoral votes.”
 
“I know Joe Biden. Joe is a fighter for working people, a champion of the forgotten, a man who stands up for what‘s right,” said former State Senator Arthenia Joyner of Tampa. “Here in Florida, we’ve seen the impact of policies meant to divide, to turn one against the other. This is not Florida, this is not America, this is not who we are. We need a Democratic candidate who will bring people together, a man who can bind the wounds of this nation and restore our pride. That candidate is Joe Biden.”
 
“Joe, time and time again, has delivered on the issues impacting Florida families,” said Florida State Representative Loranne Ausley Tallahassee. “Early childhood education, health care, economic recovery, protecting our natural resources, gun safety -- the list goes on and on. What separates Joe from the field is that he can get things done by working closely with Congress to get things done. I’m proud to join Team Joe and excited to do my part to make sure he wins Florida big.”
 
“I proudly endorse Joe Biden for President because he will lift up opportunities for all communities across Florida and the country,” said State Representative Kamia Brown of Orlando. “It’s time we had a President who healed the hurting rather than stoke division among those who disagree. Joe Biden has empathy and compassion and I know he will return hope and a commitment to progress that is sorely missing today. Floridians should unite behind Joe Biden so we can win in November.”
 
"In the Sunshine State we recognize the civility, empathy and resilience that Joe brings to the trail everyday,” says State Representative Kionne McGhee of Miami. “Now, it's time to bring these qualities back to the White House. On March 17th, it's Florida's turn to send a message to the county that Joe Biden is the right person for this moment."
 
“I could not be more enthusiastic to endorse Joe Biden, a man who leads with compassion, dignity, and empathy,” said Former State Representative and Democratic Nominee for Attorney General Sean Shaw of Tampa. “At a moment when our president seeks to divide Americans, Joe offers a message of unity and hope for our country. He has the heart for this challenging moment in American history and with his leadership, Americans can finally heal and move forward together.”
 
Today’s new endorsements include:

  • State Representative Loranne Ausley, Tallahassee
  • Palm Beach County Commissioner Mack Bernard
  • Oakland Park Vice Mayor Jane Bolin
  • State Representative Kamia Brown, Orlando
  • Commissioner Bakari Burns, Orlando
  • Orange County Board of Supervisors Vice Chair Dawn Curtis
  • State Representative Ben Diamond, Tampa
  • State Representative Bobby DuBose, Fort Lauderdale
  • Kissimmee City Commissioner Angela Eady
  • Jacksonville City Councilman Reggie Gaffney
  • Hillsborough County Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez
  • Representative Evan Jenne, Hollywood
  • Former Senator Arthenia Joyner, Tampa
  • Pinellas County Commissioner Janet Long
  • State House Minority Leader Kionne Mcghee, Miami
  • Lee County Commissioner Rick Minor
  • Miami Beach City Commissioner and Former State Representative David Richardson
  • Former State Representative and Democratic Nominee for Attorney General Sean Shaw, Tampa
  • Former Tampa City Councilman Mike Suarez
  • State Senator    Annette Taddeo, Miami
  • Tampa City Councilman Luis Viera
  • State Attorney Andrew Warren, Tampa

Today’s new endorsers join more than 50 leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, and current Members of Congress Kathy Castor, Charlie Crist, Val Demmings, Ted Deutch, Lois Frankel, Alcee Hastings, Al Lawson, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Darren Soto, and Frederica Wilson. Biden also has the most support from more Members of Congress of any candidate in the race, with 58 members backing him. Nationally, Biden for President has previously announced more than 1,500 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals.
 
Biden’s endorsements showcase the diversity of support for Vice President Biden in Florida and across the country, as well as the trust that these leaders have in his ability to beat Donald Trump, restore the soul of this nation, rebuild the middle class, and bring the country together.

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March 6, 2020 

ICYMI: Florida Education Association President Fedrick Ingram Endorses Joe Biden

Today, less than two weeks before Florida’s March 17 primary, Florida Education Association President Fedrick Ingram released the following statement in his personal capacity on Medium announcing his support for Joe Biden for President of the United States:  

“As a high school band director who taught in and grew up in one of the poorest communities in Miami, I know firsthand about the need to see the possible, even when conditions make positive outcomes seem impossible. When you are teaching kids who have the deck stacked against them from day one, you have to see what others cannot see in that child — you have to believe that you can teach that child to believe in themselves and succeed. We need a president who believes in educators’ ability to make that magic happen for our students, and is willing to partner with educators in providing all children the world-class education they deserve. That is why my choice for president is Vice President Joe Biden.

“I have a personal connection with Joe Biden. He often speaks of his struggles as a child with a stutter and how his teachers worked with him to boost his confidence.

“My own story mirrors his experience: I too had a stutter. I too had teachers who saw more in me than a kid with a speech impediment and helped me overcome the frustration and embarrassment I struggled with for years. Biden understands the value of our profession in a child’s life.

“Joe Biden believes that every single person in this country, no matter where they start in life, can achieve if they work at it. He knows that our future depends upon a strong middle class, that is why he supports giving educators the pay and respect they deserve. He knows that something must be done to keep teachers in the classroom. In Florida we have a growing teacher shortage. We see 50 percent of teachers leaving the profession within the first five years of their careers. Biden supports investment in programs that will encourage and support our teachers so they will remain in the classroom.

Florida has experienced the heartbreak of several mass shootings, including the horrendous killing of 17 innocent people at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Biden knows the importance of ensuring our students have access to mental health services and has promised to invest resources that will help them grow into healthy adults — both mentally and physically. He has promised to make sure our schools are safe and healthy environments for our students.

Biden knows all students deserve well-resourced schools and has made a commitment to invest in innovative schools in low-income communities and communities of color. He knows that there is more to education than bubbling-in a standardized test. He knows that preparing our children for the future means learning how to solve problems and collaborate on projects and technical skills, and, closest to my heart, he knows the value of the arts and music in a child’s education.

“I believe Biden is the best choice to right the ship.

He can help us move forward to build stronger schools and prepare our students for better jobs. He will work to ensure a thriving economy and healthcare that families can afford. And most importantly, he has the proven ability to help heal the wounds of an extremely divided country, and will bring stability and respect into our relationships in the global arena.

“Joe Biden has beaten the odds many times before. He has the faith and determination to see us through difficult times. That is why he has my full support and why I believe he is the best choice for our next president.”

National unions have also endorsed Biden, including the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF), International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), International Association of Bridge, Structural and Ornamental Iron Workers (IW), Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), Operative Plasterers’ & Cement Masons’ International Association (OPCMIA). Earlier this week, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1625, representing 15,000 Floridians, endorsed Biden. The American Federation of Federation of Teachers (AFT) also encouraged members to support Biden among two other candidates.
 
Biden for President has previously announced more than 1,600 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals.

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March 6, 2020   ...ed. note: Murphy endorsed Bloomberg on Jan. 16, but he ended his campaign on March 4.

Florida Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy Endorses Joe Biden

Today, less than two weeks before Florida’s March 17 primary, Florida Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy announced her support for Joe Biden for President of the United States:

“Throughout this nominating process, my priority has been to back a nominee who I believe will lead this country in a better direction. I have always highly respected Vice President Biden and his focus on working families, and I am proud to support him for president. I hope our party unites behind Joe Biden and refocuses our efforts on winning in November and restoring America’s standing in the world.”

Today’s new endorser joins more than 50 leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, and current Members of Congress Kathy Castor, Charlie Crist, Val Demmings, Ted Deutch, Lois Frankel, Alcee Hastings, Al Lawson, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Darren Soto and Frederica Wilson. Biden also has the most support from more Members of Congress of any candidate in the race, with more than 75 members backing him. Nationally, Biden for President has previously announced more than 1,600 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals.
 
Biden’s endorsements showcase the diversity of support for Vice President Biden in Florida and across the country, as well as the trust that these leaders have in his ability to beat Donald Trump, restore the soul of this nation, rebuild the middle class, and bring the country together. 

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March 6, 2020

ICYMI: The Palm Beach Post Endorses Joe Biden Ahead of the Florida Primary

Today, The Palm Beach Post endorsed Joe Biden for President. In their endorsement of Vice President Biden the Post cited his “big and open heart” and lauded Biden as the candidate with “the best chance of helping down-ballot candidates.”

The Palm Beach Post: Post endorsements: Biden is best choice for Democratic presidential nomination

Post endorsement in the Democratic presidential primary.

Just one thing should be on the minds of Florida Democrats as they vote in the March 17 presidential primary: How to beat Donald Trump in November.

That means picking the candidate who, even if not your first choice during this long campaign season, is the best bet to win.

That choice has become much easier after the clarifying events of the past week. In rapid fashion, the fire that started in South Carolina and roared through Super Tuesday has culled the recently unwieldy Democratic field to just two leading contenders.

Florida ‒ and its 219 delegates ‒ is now positioned to have a substantial say in naming the nominee.

They should choose Joseph R. Biden.

The Palm Beach Post Editorial Board is endorsing the former vice president because, in our judgment, he has a far better chance than Sen. Bernie Sanders of winning the key battleground states ‒ not just in the primaries to come, but in November. In Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania.

And of course, Florida. Democrats would, for all intents and purposes, cede the Sunshine State’s 29 electoral votes to the Republicans with Sanders as their standard bearer. Between the self-proclaimed “Democratic socialist’s” ill-informed comments about Cuban dictator Fidel Castro and public snub of AIPAC (American-Israel Public Affairs Committee), Sanders would essentially start out in a huge electoral hole.

Biden has the best chance of helping down-ballot candidates for Senate, U.S. House and state legislatures, which Democrats desperately need to gain even an inch of the progress that every Democrat, including Sanders supporters, wishes to see.

With Biden, none of those candidates will be burdened with a “socialist” label to defend. Instead, competitive races in states like Arizona, Maine and Colorado will give Democrats a real shot of flipping the Senate.

And that will be absolutely vital, not just to progressive legislation, but more importantly, to the appointment of federal judges. This is how Democratic voters see to it that the clock is not rolled back on health care, abortion rights, voting rights, workers’ rights and environmental protection.

Biden has the best chance of increasing turnout from the center and center-left of the Democratic Party. Ironically, unprecedented turnout was supposed to be Sanders’ strength. But the promised surge of first-time voters hasn’t materialized in the primaries, except maybe in California. On the contrary, ever since South Carolina, it is Biden who has inspired Democrats to swell the voting totals.

Biden has the best chance of unifying the party and the nation. Sanders and his supporters are admirably fervent ‒ but leave little room for the less-than-fervent. As one longtime Florida Democrat told the Post Editorial Board: “One does not build a coalition by spitting in the eye of party leaders, calling people names who don’t support you and accusing competitors who decide to endorse others of being unfair.”

Biden, on the other hand, is attracting a growing array of former rivals because they know him to be a solid team player, fully capable of building the broad coalition that it will take to defeat Trump. Biden, and only Biden, can draw in much-needed independents. And he can draw those “future former Republicans,” as Pete Buttigieg elegantly calls them.

[...]

More important than all this, Biden has a big and open heart ‒ a powerful contrast to a president incapable of empathy or a deep interest in anything beyond his own personal interests. Biden has been a leader on gun control. He shepherded the Affordable Care Act for President Barack Obama. He was quicker than Obama to support same-sex marriage.

His longtime leadership of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee ensures that, as president, he would quickly restore America’s standing among free nations while taking the world’s dictators to task. He would shore up NATO and other vital alliances. He would quickly revive our membership in the Paris Climate Accords.

Supporters of Sanders or Sen. Elizabeth Warren who worry that their liberal dreams would be shattered by a Biden presidency, shouldn’t. Biden will undoubtedly run on the most progressive platform any major party has produced since ... well, maybe ever.

Biden will fight for the most far-reaching health-coverage law possible. He’ll address climate change and fair-minded immigration policy. And while he doesn’t talk much about inequality or bash the billionaire class, he’ll increase taxes on the uber-wealthy and corporations just the same.

Floridians can make a real impact in the Democratic primary process.

They can give Biden a convincing victory in this vital swing state. They can increase his delegate lead, and help extinguish any potential claims by the Sanders camp of being cheated out of the nomination. They can make the day come sooner that the Democratic Party unites behind the candidate that the Trump campaign fears most.

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March 6, 2020

Florida Congressman Darren Soto Endorses Joe Biden 

Soto Becomes 10th Florida Member of Congress to Endorse Biden

Today, Florida Congressman Darren Soto of Orlando released the following statement endorsing Joe Biden for President of the United States: 
 
“Vice President Joe Biden is the unity candidate that can rally the American people to victory in November and finally address the major issues affecting our nation. I trust Joe to heal our nation’s hurtful division and tackle issues like addressing climate change, protecting our healthcare, raising wages, preserving Florida’s environment, passing a major infrastructure package, and supporting Puerto Rico disaster recovery.”
 
Soto joins more than 50 leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, and current Members of Congress Kathy Castor, Charlie Crist, Val Demmings, Ted Deutch, Lois Frankel, Alcee Hastings, Al Lawson, Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Frederica Wilson. Biden also has the most support from more Members of Congress of any candidate in the race, with 58 members backing him. 
Nationally, Biden for President has previously announced more than 1,500 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals.
 
Biden’s endorsements showcase the diversity of support for Vice President Biden in Florida and across the country, as well as the trust that these leaders have in his ability to beat Donald Trump, restore the soul of this nation, rebuild the middle class, and bring the country together. 

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March 5, 2020

Sun Sentinel and Tampa Bay Times Recommend  Joe Biden Ahead of the Florida Primary

“No one else has done so much for so long to earn the nation’s highest trust.” - Sun Sentinel

Today, two of Florida’s largest papers — the Sun Sentinel and the Tampa Bay Times — recommended Joe Biden to be the Democratic nominee for President. In their endorsements of Joe Biden, both cite his decades of experience and his ability to unite our country to move forward. 

The Sun Sentinel: Editorial: Joe Biden is the man of the hour for Florida and the nation

The stunning 10-state triumph of former Vice President Joe Biden... shows the depth and breadth of America’s yearning for the return of decency and dignity to the White House.

...Democrats want, need and deserve a candidate known not for anger, but for accomplishments; for humility, not hostility; and for decency, not demagoguery.

...No one else has done so much for so long to earn the nation’s highest trust.

...Biden is the candidate Trump fears most — so much so that he committed impeachable offenses to disparage him. Both Trump and Vladimir Putin would prefer to see Sanders as the Democratic nominee.

Equally important to his policies, Biden’s personality and character make him the best candidate for this perilous time.

Widely experienced. Thoroughly decent. Ideologically moderate. If Joe Biden is not a man for all seasons, he is certainly the man of the hour.

We are proud to endorse Joe Biden for the presidency of the United States.

Tampa Bay Times: Editorial: Times recommends: Joe Biden for Democrats

...As both political parties tilt toward their extremes, Biden could steer the country toward the middle with a steady hand. 

He knows how to make government work for the greater good, and he has collaborated with Republicans and Democrats alike...

Biden takes positions that are progressive and possible.

He would pursue universal health coverage by building on the Affordable Care Act, not by pushing a government takeover that Congress won’t approve and Americans won’t support. He was an early leader on climate change and embraces aggressive goals, but he would not immediately ban fracking that extracts natural gas. He would forgive student loan debt in exchange for public service and suggests two years of community college could be free, but he does not call for all student loan debt to be magically wiped away or embrace the fantasy of entirely free tuition at public colleges and universities…

The Super Tuesday results also demonstrate Biden can boost voter turnout, particularly among blacks, women and suburban voters. 

Biden’s mainstream approach and personal decency could appeal to Republican and independent voters seeking an alternative to the incumbent in November.

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March 5, 2020

Florida Congresswoman Val Demings Endorses Joe Biden 

Demings Becomes 9th Florida Member of Congress to Endorse Biden

Today, Florida Congresswoman Val Demings of Orlando released the following statement endorsing Joe Biden for President of the United States: 
 
“As an African-American female growing up in Florida, I realized early on that I wanted to be a public servant.
 
“I chose tough jobs, or maybe they chose me.
 
“As a former social worker, career law enforcement officer, and chief of police, I’ve seen the best and the worst of America.  What I know from my past experience is that America is at its best when every person has an opportunity to succeed.
 
“As Dr. King once said, the ultimate measure of a man is not where he, or she, stands in times of comfort and convenience, but where they stand in times of challenge and controversy .” Joe Biden has been there during some of the toughest times and continues to fight for all Americans.
 
“That is why I am so proud to endorse Joe Biden for President of the United States.
 
“My husband likes to say, ‘the best indicator of future performance is to look at past performance’ and I have done just that. Joe Biden has fought for every American regardless of the color of their skin, gender, zip code, sexual orientation, religion, or bank account.
 
“My mother was a maid and my father was a janitor. They went to work every day. Joe Biden understands that he can fight for those who struggle to make ends meet, like my parents, without demonizing those who don’t.
 
“Joe Biden has a strong, unwavering record of fighting for health care for all Americans, voting rights, civil rights, equality, as well as protecting crime victims and reducing gun violence.
 
“As a member of the U.S. House Intelligence Committee, I am particularly concerned about conditions around the world, and Vice President Biden’s experience in foreign affairs is untouchable.
 
“I love the Democratic Party, and I truly believe the Party is the only hope our country has right now to protect our democracy, restore trust in our government, uphold the rule of law, and unite us all as Americans. We must continue to win up and down the ballot. 
 
“United we stand and united we win! Vice President Joe Biden is the right person for the job in this very important moment in time.” 

This morning, Demings announced her support on CNN
 
Demings joins more than 50 leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, and current Members of Congress Ted Deutch (FL-22) Lois Frankel (D-21), Kathy Castor (D-14), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23), Al Lawson (FL-5), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Alcee Hastings (FL-20), and Charlie Crist (FL-13). Biden also has the most support from more Members of Congress of any candidate in the race with 58 members backing him. Nationally, Biden for President has previously announced more than 1,500 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals.

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March 4, 2020

Florida Congressman Ted Deutch Endorses Joe Biden

After Backing Bloomberg, Deutch Becomes 8th Congressional Supporter

Today, Florida Congressman Ted Deutch of Boca Raton released the following statement endorsing Joe Biden for President of the United States: 

“I am proud to announce my endorsement of Joe Biden for President of the United States. Joe has the experience, judgment, and decency to defeat Donald Trump and bring America together. Additionally, with Joe at the top of the ticket, I am confident we can keep our majority in the House and have a shot at turning the Senate blue. We deserve a President who will tell the truth, stand up to the NRA to end the epidemic of gun violence, urgently take on climate change and stand proudly with our key allies around the world. It is time to end a presidency that has torn America apart and start an optimistic new chapter behind President Joe Biden.”

Deutch joins more than 45 leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, and current Members of Congress Lois Frankel (D-21), Kathy Castor (D-14), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23), Al Lawson (FL-5), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Alcee Hastings (FL-20), and Charlie Crist (FL-13). Biden also has the most support from more Members of Congress of any candidate in the race with 58 members backing him. Nationally, Biden for President has previously announced more than 1,500 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals.

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March 4, 2020

ICYMI: United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 1625 Endorses Joe Biden in Florida

Today, United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Union Local 1625 in Florida announced its endorsement of  Joe Biden for President of the United States. 
 
“After conferring with our members across the state, as well as our Executive Board, we have decided to support Vice President Biden because our nation needs a President that will fight for and defend the rights of working Americans. Joe will be that President. He has always had our backs, and dedicated his life to fighting for working families and our causes. The frustration of workers across Florida is real, and Vice President Biden not only understands, but will work to protect our rights, and secure a better life and future for our families,” said UFCW Union Local 1625 President Ed Chambers.
 
UFCW Local 1625 is a statewide local headquartered in Lakeland, Florida, and represents over 15,000 members in healthcare, manufacturing, food processing, and the public sector, and hospitality including Walt Disney World.

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March 4, 2020

Florida Congresswomen Kathy Castor and Lois Frankel Endorse Joe Biden 

Castor and Frankel Make 7 Florida Members of Congress to Endorse Biden 

Today, Florida Congresswomen Kathy Castor of Tampa and Lois Frankel of West Palm Beach released the following statements endorsing Joe Biden for President of the United States: 
 
“I confidently endorse Joe Biden for President. Here in Florida and Tampa Bay, we know Joe. Vice President Biden will fight to lift wages, make health care more affordable and accessible, ensure a healthy environment for future generations, and equal opportunity for all Americans. Joe Biden is the best candidate to beat Donald Trump and restore the dignity and respect in the White House that Americans deserve,” said Congresswoman Kathy Castor.
 
“Joe Biden is the candidate who can win Florida and help Florida Democrats win down ballot. At a moment when our state legislators and governor are fighting against voting rights, gun safety, and access to health care, we need a leader at the very top of the ticket who won’t just help us halt these attacks on everyday Floridians, but also help us gain seats and political power across the state. Joe Biden has the coalition, message, and leadership that can help Florida Democrats do just that, which is why I’m endorsing him for president,” said Congresswoman Lois Frankel.

Today’s slate joins more than 45  leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, and current Members of Congress Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23), Al Lawson (FL-5), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Alcee Hastings (FL-20), and Charlie Crist (FL-13). Biden also has the most support from more Members of Congress of any candidate in the race with 58 members backing him. Nationally, Biden for President has previously announced more than 1,500 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals.

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March 1, 2020

Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz Endorses Joe Biden 

 Wasserman Schultz is the 5th Florida Member of Congress to Endorse Biden 

Weston, Florida — Today, Congresswoman  Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-23) released the following statement endorsing Joe Biden for President of the United States: 
 
“As Floridians begin early voting for our next Democratic presidential candidate tomorrow, I am proud to endorse Joe Biden. Joe has the heart to unite our country, the experience to get big things done for the American people, and the vision to move our country beyond four years of Donald Trump’s failed presidency.
 
Florida knows Joe and Joe knows Florida. He has delivered for the Sunshine State by expanding access to health care, making our communities safer from gun violence, and helping our state recover after the Great Recession. I am confident as President he will do the same. Joe Biden shares our values as a true fighter for voting rights and human rights both here and abroad and as a strong supporter of Israel with a record to match. Most importantly, Joe Biden is the candidate who will be able to deliver a decisive win here in Florida, the state that will give Democrats the White House in November 2020.”
 
This morning, Wasserman Schultz published an op-ed outlining her support for Biden in the Sun-Sentinel. Tomorrow, she will kick off an organizing event in Broward County.

Wasserman Schultz joins other leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, and current Members of Congress Al Lawson (FL-5), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Alcee Hastings (FL-20), and Charlie Crist (FL-13). Biden also has the most support from more Members of Congress of any candidate in the race with XX members backing him. l.  Nationally, Biden for President has previously announced more than 1,400 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals. 

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February 12, 2020 

Biden for President Announces Eight Grassroots Organizing Groups to Mobilize Florida Voters

Sunshine State Leaders to Chair Grassroots Organizing Groups for Biden
  
Today, Biden for President is announcing eight grassroots organizing groups to mobilize Florida’s diverse communities on behalf of Joe Biden. The groups will be chaired by current and former elected officials, grassroots activists, and well-known community leaders from across the Sunshine State.  This group includes both existing endorsers of Biden for President and new additions to Team Joe, including Carmen Torres and Reverend Joe Parramore. 
 
“I am incredibly proud and motivated by this group of leaders that represent the diversity and size of the state and all coming together for the candidate we know who can win Florida: Joe Biden,” said Jackie Lee, Florida Senior Advisor, Biden for President. “To win here, we need a broad and diverse coalition that reaches every community in every corner of our state. That is exactly what these leaders are able to do — they are credible, influential voices that know their communities and what it will take to win Florida. As we continue building our Sunshine State support, you can expect our grassroots organizing efforts to grow, all working tirelessly to make Joe Biden our next president.” 

The Biden for President Florida Constituency Chairs include: 
  • Florida Women Leaders for Biden: Hon. Gwen Graham, Senator Janet Cruz, Senator Audrey Gibson
  • Florida African Americans Leaders for Biden: Senator Perry Thurston
  • Florida Hispanic Leaders for Biden: Carmen Torres and Senator José Javier Rodríguez
  • Florida Caribbean Leaders for Biden: Dr. Larry Pierre 
  • Florida Jewish Leaders for Biden: Rep. Joe Geller, Michael Adler, Senator Lori Berman
  • Florida Faith Leaders for Biden: Rep. Shevrin Jones and Reverend Joe Parramore
  • Florida LGBTQ+ Leaders for Biden: Joe Falk          
  • Florida Young Leaders for Biden: Rep. Ramon Alexander
“Across the country, women have organized and mobilized against the injustices of Donald Trump and his administration’s attacks on women. Continuing to mobilize women across the Sunshine State will be essential to beating Trump here in November,” said former Congresswoman Gwen Graham, co-chair of Florida Women Leaders for Biden. “Florida women have faced an onslaught of anti-women legislation from Tallahassee to Washington — and they deserve a candidate who can deliver for them. That’s Joe Biden. He has the track record results and ability to achieve real, progressive change that Florida women and this country need. With the stakes so high, I am more motivated than ever to organize women on behalf of the candidate I know is best-positioned to beat Donald Trump in Florida and nationwide.” 
 
“Joe Biden has proven himself to be the candidate best-positioned to build the broad, diverse coalition of support that is required to win here in Florida. More importantly, our community knows and trusts Joe. As the chair for African Americans for Biden in Florida, I’m grateful to help lead that charge to expand and mobilize our coalition, making the case to my community about what’s at stake in this election and why Joe Biden is the best candidate for African Americans,” said State Senator Perry Thurston, chair of Florida African-American Leaders for Biden. “We will be engaging African American voters across the state by listening to voters about issues they care most about and continuing to expand our grassroots network that will hand Joe a win here on March 17.” 
 
“Joe Biden and Hispanics have something in common: Donald Trump is afraid of us and our political power. Because we can beat him and will beat him in November 2020,” said Carmen Torres, co-chair of Florida Hispanic Leaders for Biden. “This fight is personal. Puerto Ricans have been attacked and demonized by this current administration. There is no better way to speak up and stand up to Donald Trump than by mobilizing and rallying around the one candidate in this field that has what it takes to beat Donald Trump: Joe Biden.” 

The constituency chairs join more than 45 leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham and current Members of Congress Al Lawson (FL-5), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Alcee Hastings (FL-20), and Charlie Crist (FL-13). With a focus on early, Super Tuesday, and battleground states, Biden for President has previously announced more than 1,300 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals. 

 
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February 6, 2020

Florida Legislators Endorse Joe Biden as Vote-by-Mail Begins

Biden’s Sunshine State Support Balloons to 34 State Legislators 
  
Tallahassee, Florida — Today, Biden for President is announcing endorsements from five African American Florida state legislators, bringing the total number Florida leaders supporting Biden to over 50. These endorsements show the growing, diverse coalition that Biden is building as Floridians begin to cast their ballots this week through vote-by-mail. 
 
“As vote-by-mail gears up across Florida, we feel energized by the growing support we have across the state. These legislators are well-known, influential leaders that know Joe Biden is the candidate best-positioned to beat Donald Trump in the critical state of Florida,” said Jackie Lee, Florida Senior Advisor, Biden for President. “Most importantly, this recent slate will help mobilize our supporters to vote, whether it’s through vote-by-mail now, early voting, or in-person on March 17.” 

Today’s endorsements include: 
  • Bruce Antone, Orange County State Representative and Chair of the Florida Legislative Black Caucus
  • Dianne Hart, Hillsborough County State Representative 
  • Geraldine Thompson, Orange County State Representative 
  • Delores Hogan Johnson, St. Lucie County State Representative 
  • Fentrice Driskell, Hillsborough County State Representative 
“I am proud to join many of my colleagues to endorse Joe Biden for President, the candidate I know can win Florida and from there, the White House. Joe’s character and distinct capability to connect with people of all backgrounds are the qualities we need in our next President, who will inherit a divided and polarized country," said State Representative Bruce Antone, who also serves as the Chair of the Florida Legislative Black Caucus. “In Florida, the stakes are high. In the state legislature, we are on the front lines fighting for better schools, the dignity of work, and most urgently, the right for all Floridians to vote. I trust Joe Biden to tackle these issues head-on and get things done.” 
 
 “As Floridians begin to vote-by-mail for our Democratic nominee, I have made the decision to endorse Joe Biden, the candidate who I am confident will be able to beat Donald Trump and also work closely with Congress to implement progressive change on the most pressing issues of our time,” said ​State Representative Fentrice Driskell. ​“Health care, education reform, gun safety and climate change — we cannot wait for change. Joe Biden’s achievable plans and proven track record of getting things done prove to me that he is exactly the leader we need to break the stalemate in Washington and deliver for the American people.”

Today’s slate joins 46 leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, and current Members of Congress Al Lawson (FL-5), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Alcee Hastings (FL-20), and Charlie Crist (FL-13). With a focus on early, Super Tuesday, and battleground states, Biden for President has previously announced more than 1,300 endorsements from national, state, and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, community leaders, and national security professionals. 

 
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January 21, 2020

Representatives Frederica Wilson, Donald Payne, Sanford Bishop, and Alcee Hastings Endorse Joe Biden

Biden Has Earned 15 Endorsements from Congressional Black Caucus Members

Today, Representatives Frederica Wilson and Alcee Hastings of Florida, Representative Sanford Bishop of Georgia, and Representative Donald Payne of New Jersey announced their support for Joe Biden for President of the United States. All cited Biden’s ability to unify the nation and strong track record of delivering for American families. 
 
“This election is about the future of our country and making sure that our children inherit a country that works for all of us. Our candidate needs to have the strength to beat Donald Trump and the the heart to bring this country together, for the sake of our children. That is why I’m proud to endorse Joe Biden for President of the United States, a leader that I know will put our families and children first,” said Congresswoman Frederica Wilson, founder of the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project, a program that works to disrupt the school to prison pipeline across Florida.  “Joe has been a committed advocate for education throughout his career in public service — keeping our schools safe from gun violence, fighting for increased mental health services and funding, and being a staunch advocate for community colleges. His broad-based, achievable plans to improve our education system speak to the urgency of addressing education issues head-on and honestly. I trust Joe Biden to deliver for Florida families and look forward to doing my part in helping him turn Florida blue in November because Florida is pivotal. ” 
 
“My father was the first African-American to represent the state of New Jersey in Congress. I’m following a legacy and I’m not backing away from that,” said Congressman Donald Payne. “To continue the work that my father championed, we need a President that prioritizes the issues that working families care about. He’s always been there for our communities. There is too much at stake in this election and we need someone like Joe Biden, who from day one will make the needs of working families the centerpiece of his administration. For these reasons, I proudly endorse Joe Biden for President.” 

“Joe Biden’s foreign and domestic policy experience, legislative shrewdness, and and successful implementation of the Recovery Act following the Great Recession are indicative of the the kind of leader this nation needs at this moment. Joe Biden will not only restore the soul of this nation, but he will restore the nation’s economic security and ensure that working families will be able to live with dignity and respect, have a pathway to upward mobility and realizing their full potential. For these reasons, I’m proud to endorse Joe Biden for president,” said Congressman Sanford Bishop

“Joe Biden has the experience, vision, and heart to reunify our country after four years of Donald Trump. I’ve known Joe for years. I know that he is ready to take on the job as Commander-in-Chief on day one,” said Congressman Alcee Hastings. “Joe’s record of delivering for our working families, including by passing Obamacare and defeating the NRA twice — two issues that have improved the lives of my constituents and Americans across our country. He has the proven ability to connect and empathize with folks of all backgrounds. At a time when our President is doing everything he possibly can to divide our nation, Joe will be a driving force for healing and unity. He will restore the soul of our nation.”
 
The Members of Congress join eleven other CBC endorsers, including three former CBC Chairs, and bring Biden’s total number of CBC endorsers to 15 — more than any other candidate in the race In total, there are now 36 Members of Congress backing Biden

Congresswoman Wilson and Congressman Hastings join more than 40 leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former U.S. Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, current U.S. Representatives Al Lawson (FL-5) and Charlie Crist (FL-13), and more than a third of Florida’s Democratic state legislators. And, Congressman Payne adds to the foundation support Joe Biden has earned in New Jersey with the recent endorsements of Congressman Tom Malinowski (NJ-7) and former governors of New Jersey Jim Florio and Richard Codey. Congressman Bishop joins previous prominent Georgia endorsers including Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and Georgia State Reps. Pedro Marin and Billy Mitchell, the incoming president of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators.

Nationally, Biden for President has announced more than 1,100 endorsements from national, state and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, and community leaders.
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Biden for President
November 27, 2019

Florida State Senate Minority Leader Audrey Gibson Endorses Joe Biden

Gibson is the highest-ranking female African American elected official in the State of Florida

Jacksonville, Florida — Today, Florida State Senate Minority Leader Audrey Gibson released the following statement endorsing Joe Biden for President of the United States:
 
“There are plenty of reasons to support Joe, but for me, it boils down to this: Joe Biden is a fighter, leader, and advocate for all Americans. Joe has fought for civil rights throughout his entire career and stood shoulder-to-shoulder with President Obama as vice president. Joe’s connection to and with the African American community is enduring, genuine, and strong.
 
“As a leader, Joe has always governed by the truth that there is far more that unites us than divides us. As the Florida State Senate Minority Leader, I couldn’t agree more: we must work together to move the people’s agenda. Joe’s commitment to consensus-building has yielded incredible results, including passing of the Violence Against Women Act and the Affordable Care Act, as well as the Paris Climate Change Accords. Plain and simple, Joe works for Americans.
  
“Here in Florida, we need urgency in our leadership. And, while many Democratic candidates have laid out ambitious and commendable policy proposals, Joe is the only leader that will actually get these things done — and not next month or next year, but immediately. I look forward to working to make sure he is our next President.”
 
State Senator Gibson is the highest-ranking female African American elected official in the State of Florida, currently serving as the State Senate Minority Leader. She represents Florida’s 6th District, which includes downtown Jacksonville and metropolitan Duval County. 
 
State Senator Gibson joins 43 local leaders across Florida that have endorsed Joe Biden for President, including former U.S. Senators Bill Nelson and Bob Graham, current U.S. Representatives Al Lawson and Charlie Crist, and more than a third of Florida’s Democratic state legislators. Nationally, Biden for President has announced more than 600 endorsements from national, state and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, and community leaders.

September 19, 2019

U.S. Reps. Emanuel Cleaver, G.K. Butterfield, and Charlie Crist join Rep. Vicente Gonzalez in Endorsing Joe Biden

Today, Biden for President is announcing new endorsements from U.S. Reps. Emanuel Cleaver of Missouri, G.K. Butterfield of North Carolina, and Charlie Crist of Florida, adding two Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) members and a former governor to the growing list of prominent and influential elected leaders supporting Joe Biden. Rep. Cleaver chaired the CBC from 2011-2013, Rep. Butterfield chaired the CBC from 2015-2017, and Rep. Crist served as the governor of Florida from 2007 to 2011.

Vice President Biden has earned four total congressional endorsements this week, including Rep. Vicente Gonzalez of Texas, a Congressional Hispanic Caucus member who recently switched his endorsement to Vice President Biden after the third Democratic presidential debate.

These Congressional endorsements represent the broad and diverse coalition Vice President Biden is building in states across the country. The representatives outline below why Joe Biden represents a sea of change from the current president and will fight to restore and strengthen our democracy. 

U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver of Missouri:
“As a pastor, my values, morals, and faith have been a guiding light throughout my life and time in public service. From becoming the first African-American Mayor of Kansas City to becoming a member of Congress, my strong convictions have given me the foundation necessary to fight for jobs, economic development, and housing reform for the people of Missouri. In the same manner, Joe Biden’s convictions have led him to fight for what he believes in and to serve not only the people of Delaware but the nation.
 
“Democracy is delicate and susceptible to perversion by the powerful. Over the past three years, we—and the entire world—have witnessed an undisguised assault on our democratic institutions. The man entrusted to faithfully execute the laws of our nation has distorted them to protect his own interests at the expense of the American people. The current administration has led our country into a moral darkness and away from the core values that once made America a respected and dignified leader on the world stage.

“The next election is, in many ways, about whether our leader can restore the soul of our nation and re-establish the long held notion that the United States of America is moving welcomingly and indelibly toward a unified nation.  Our nation is in dire need of someone like Joe Biden, a leader who has never been afraid to speak out for what he believes is right. Joe Biden has been a champion in fighting for American families for over forty years. And right now, he’s speaking out against the divisive rhetoric and abhorrent behavior we continue to see under this president. We need integrity to be restored in the highest office.  That’s why I proudly endorse Joe Biden for President.”

U.S. Rep. G.K. Butterfield of North Carolina:
“My parents taught me that regardless of one’s station in life they were entitled to quality health care, a good education, and the tools to succeed. My father and mother not only instilled those same values in me, but they were living examples of great humanitarians. 

“As a dentist, my father never denied anyone care if they could not afford it. My mother was a teacher who taught elementary school for 48 years in some of the poorest communities in North Carolina. They both served as an inspiration for my life in public service, where I have been a tireless advocate and champion for my constituents. 

“We need a tireless advocate and champion for this nation in the White House, and that person is Joe Biden. He is immensely prepared to lead our great country. As former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, I have watched Republicans advance legislation that intentionally leaves some communities behind and they deserve better. Civil rights brought Joe Biden into the fight, and I know he’ll continue that fight – the fight for equality and the opportunity for economic success. That’s why I proudly endorse Joe Biden for President of the United States.”

U.S. Rep. and former Governor of Florida Charlie Crist:
“I have had the honor of serving Florida as Attorney General, Governor, and now as a Congressman representing the most beautiful congressional district in the country. Through my time in public service, I have learned that being the voice of the people means rising above partisan white noise to do whatever it takes to get things done. Especially when it means protecting Florida’s beautiful coasts, restoring voting rights of non-violent ex-felons, and continuing to lead efforts to protect civil rights.

“Joe Biden’s record of getting things done speaks for itself. He has always put the American people above party lines and will continue to as President. We currently have a president that has sacrificed the economic livelihood of Americans through government shutdowns, tariffs, and attempts to repeal health care in order to score political points. We need a president whose objective at the end of the day is to move the country forward for everyone through action, not empty promises. 

“Furthermore, he’s the best candidate we can nominate to take on President Trump, growing our big tent party, earning the support of independents and disaffected Republicans — all key to winning Florida and thus closing off Trump’s path to re-election.

“For these reasons and more, I proudly endorse Joe Biden for President.”

Last week, the campaign announced endorsements from 59 African American state legislators, as well as new endorsements from Former U.S. Secretary Interior Secretary Ken Salazar and elected officials and community leaders from South Carolina and New Hampshire and from the Super Tuesday states Texas and Tennessee.

Biden for President has previously announced more than 410 endorsements from national, state and local leaders, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, governors, state elected officials, and community leaders, including six endorsements from Congressional Black Caucus members.

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Biden for President
July 29, 2019

91 Elected and Community Leaders from Super Tuesday and Battleground States Endorse Joe Biden

Biden Earns Support from Leaders in Colorado, Tennessee, Utah, Florida, and Maryland

Today, Biden for President is announcing a slate of 91 former and current elected officials and community leaders from Colorado, Tennessee, Utah, Florida, and Maryland that adds to a growing list of prominent national and local leaders supporting the campaign. Today’s endorsements further build the campaign’s momentum heading into Wednesday night’s debate and represent continued enthusiasm in key early and battleground states. 
 
“Each and every one of these leaders are trusted voices in their communities and I am proud to have earned their support,” said Vice President Joe Biden. “Their  endorsements are crucial to this campaign. I look forward to standing alongside them and speaking with voters in their communities about rebuilding the backbone of our country – the middle class – and unifying America.” 
 
Biden for President has previously announced dozens of endorsements in the four key early states, battleground states, and states in every corner of the country. Additionally, national and statewide figures, including current and former U.S. senators and representatives, and governors. As Team Joe continues to expand its field operations on the ground, Biden for President will continue announcing support from influential community leaders.
 
Today’s new endorsements include: 

Colorado:
  • Federico Pena, Former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and Energy and Former Mayor of Denver
  • Adrienne Benavidez, State Representative
  • Bri Buentello, State Representative
  • Bruce Brown, District Attorney for Summit, Eagle, Clear Creek and Lake Counties
  • Bill Holen, Arapahoe County Commissioner
  • Suzanne Williams, Former State Senator
  • John Soper, Former State Representative
  • Debbie Hunter-Holen, Former Aurora City Councilmember 
  • Cindy Pena, Community Leader
  • Rabbi Steven Foster, Community Leader
  • Sheila Leider, Labor Leader
  • Danielle Young-Kombo, Democratic Stakeholder and Community Leader
  • Tim Knaus, Former Chair of the Colorado Democratic Party
  • Scott Martinez, Former Denver City Attorney and Latino Leader
  • Portia Prescott, Democratic Stakeholder and Community Leader
Tennessee: 
  • Jim Sasser, Former United States Senator and Former U.S. Ambassador to China
  • Lincoln Davis, Former United States Representative 
  • Bob Freeman, State Representative
  • Rosetta Miller Perry, The Tennessee Tribune Publisher
  • Warren Gooch, Mayor of Oakridge
  • Bill Owen, Former State Senator and member of the Democratic National Committee 
  • Bill Freeman, Former Mayoral Candidate and businessman
  • Chip Forrester, Former Tennessee Democratic Party Chairman
  • Doug Horne, Former Tennessee Democratic Party Chairman 
  • Rev. Jerry Maynard, Former Metro Councilman-At-Large
  • Elisa Parker, Former Tennessee Democratic Party Vice Chair
  • Bob Thomas, Former Tennessee Democratic Party Chairman
  • Bob Tuke, Former Tennessee Democratic Party Chairman
  • Gray Sasser, Former Tennessee Democratic Party Chairman
  • Sylvia Woods, Tennessee Democratic Party Executive Committee
  • Mike Turner, Former State Representative
Utah:
  • Scott Howell, Former State Senate Minority Leader
  • Ed Allen, Former State Senator
  • Neil Hansen, Former State Representative
  • Dale Cox, Murray City Councilmember and Former President of the Utah AFL-CIO
  • Ed Chavez, Carbon County Democratic Party Chair and Former Mayor of Helper
  • J Dell Holbrook, Former Davis County Commissioner, Former Utah Democratic Party Treasurer and Former Davis County Democratic Party Chair
  • Joe Hatch, Former Salt Lake County Councilmember, Former Salt Lake County Democratic Party Chair
  • Art Douglas, Former USDA Executive Director for the Farm Service Association, Former Secretary of the National Farmers Union, Former President of the Utah Farmers Union and Former Boxelder County Democratic Party Chair
  • Scott Mullins, President of the United Steelworkers Local 392
  • John Forsman, Current Vice Chair and former Chair of the Utah Democratic Party Veterans Caucus
  • Megan Holbrook, Former Chair of the Utah Democratic Party
  • Nicholas Holland, Former Vice President of Labor Relations for the Young Democrats of America, Former Vice President of the Young Democrats of Utah
  • Miriam Hyde, Former Chair of the Utah Democratic Party Disabilities Caucus
  • Osman Ahmed, Former Chair of the Utah Democratic Party African American Caucus
  • Christian Burridge, Former Salt Lake County Democratic Party Chair
  • Jan Douglas, Former Boxelder County Democratic Party Chair
  • Richard Watson, Former Davis County Democratic Party Chair
  • Oscar Mata, Former Executive Director of the Young Democrats of Utah, Former Weber County Democratic Party Executive Director
Florida:
  • Bob Graham, Former United States Senator and Governor
  • Bill Nelson, Former United States Senator
  • Nancy Soderberg, Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations
  • Jason Pizzo, State Senator
  • Lori Berman, State Senator
  • Bill Proctor, Leon County Commissioner
  • Joyce Cusack, Volusia County Councilwoman
  • Robert Ascencio, Former State Representative
  • Ronald Brisé, Former State Representative
  • Rod Smith, Former State Senator and Former Florida Democratic Party Chairman
  • Chip Fletcher, Former City of Tampa Councilman 
  • Dick Batchelor, Former State Representative
  • Manny Diaz, Former Mayor of Miami and Former U.S. Conference of Mayors President
Maryland:
  • Al Wynn, Former United States Representative
  • Jim Rosapepe, State Senate Democratic Caucus Chairman and Former U.S. Ambassador to Romania
  • Nancy King, State Senator
  • Bobby Zirkin, State Senator
  • Brian Feldman, State Senator
  • Ron Young, State Senator
  • Erek Barron, State Delegate and Former Counsel to then Sen. Joe Biden
  • Anne Healey, State Delegate
  • Ken Kerr, State Delegate
  • Dana Stein, State Delegate
  • Karen Lewis Young, State Delegate
  • Andrew Pruski, Anne Arundel County Council Chairman
  • Denise Mitchell, College Park City Councilwoman
  • Scott Poyer, Clerk of the Circuit Court, Anne Arundel County Circuit Court
  • Grace Connally, Baltimore County Registrar of Wills
  • Gloria Lawlah, Former State Secretary of Aging & Former State Senator
  • Jim Brochin, Former State Senator
  • Karl Kirby Pence, Former Maryland State Teachers Association President
  • Patrick Armstrong, Anne Arundel County Democratic Central Committee Chairman
  • Thomas Slater, Former member Board of Regents and Frederick County Democrat Central Committee
  • Vincent Demarco, Leading Maryland Public Health and Health Care Advocate
  • John McDonough, Former Secretary of State
  • Jim Kraft, Former Baltimore City Councilman
  • Hannah Byron, Former State Economic Development Official
  • Carl Widell, Former Talbot County Democratic Central Committee Chairman
  • Ida Ruben, Former State Senate President Pro Tem
  • Herb Smith, Howard County Democratic Central Committee Member
  • Justin Holliday, Baltimore County Democratic Central Committee Member
  • Doug Sentz, Baltimore County Democratic Central Committee Treasurer
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U.S. Rep. Al Lawson (FL-5) (announced May 30, 2019)