Jason Brodeur endorses David Smith as HD 28 successor

Term-limited state Rep. Jason Brodeur has endorsed fellow Republican David Smith to succeed him in Seminole County based House District 28.

“I’m proud to endorse David Smith in his campaign to serve the community I’ve been blessed to represent for the past 8 years,” Brodeur said in a press release. “David is a natural born leader and a true patriot who I know will be a great Representative for our community.”

Brodeur joins a long list of Republican pols backing Smith’s campaign, including Reps. Bob Cortes and Scott Plakon who also represent parts of Seminole County in the House.

 “I’m honored to have the support of Representative Brodeur,” Smith said. “His hard work and commitment to our community has left it a better place for many families and businesses. I look forward to advancing the service and leadership he has provided our community.”

Smith, a retired U.S. Marine Corps colonel, is currently the only Republican running in the GOP-leaning district. Assuming no other candidates file before the end of the qualifying period on June 22, the Nov. 6 general election see Smith face off against Democrat Lee Mangold.

Smith holds a massive lead in the money race. He started May with about $146,000 banked compared to $14,417 on hand for Mangold.

HD 28 covers part of northeastern Seminole County, including Sanford, Winter Springs, Casselberry and Oviedo. Republican voters make up nearly 40 percent of the electorate in the Central Florida district, compared to a 33 percent share for Democrats.

Brodeur was elected to the old HD 33 in 2010. He has only faced third-party candidates in his three re-election campaigns since redistricting placed him in HD 28, winning each with around two-thirds of the vote. The seat voted plus-4 for Donald Trump in the 2016 presidential election.