Scott Powers
The Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association has endorsed former state Rep. Ricardo Rangel in his quest to return to his seat in the Kissimmee-based House District 43.
Rangel, a Kissimmee Democrat, is challenging current incumbent state Rep. John Cortes in the Aug. 30 Democratic primary. Cortes beat Rangel in a primary two years ago. Democrat Sara Shaw also is in the race.
“The Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association is looking forward to having the leadership of Ricardo Rangel back in Tallahassee. His continued partnership with Central Florida’s hospitality industry will be a great benefit to our community,” Kevin Craig, public policy director for CFHLA, stated in a news release issued by Rangel’s campaign.
The hotel association represents one of Central Florida’s biggest employers, with tens of thousands of workers, many of them living in HD 43.
The winner of the Aug. 30 Democratic primary is assured election in November. There is a write-in candidate who will be on the November ballot. That makes the primary open only to Democratic voters.
“I am honored to have CFHLA’s endorsement. With tourism being Osceola County’s No. 1 industry, I look forward to working with them to ensure hospitality, tourism and the jobs it creates continues to thrive.” Rangel stated.
