Peter Schorsch
There are more than 300 candidates running for the 160 seats in the Florida House and Senate. And, try as we will, FloridaPolitics.com won’t be able to interview all of them. So we are asking every candidate, including incumbents, to complete a questionnaire we believe offers an interesting, albeit, thumbnail sketch of who they are and why they are running. If you are a candidate and would like to complete the questionnaire, email [email protected].
Today’s candidate spotlight features Sean Shaw, a Democrat running for Senate District 61.
Here he is in his own words.
Significant other?
Tami Trimming.
Kids?
None.
Education background?
Princeton University, 2000 A.B. Politics, University of Florida College of Law, 2003 J.D.
Professional background?
Florida Insurance Consumer Advocate 2008-2010, an attorney with the Merlin Law Group, 2010-present.
What was your first job?
Runner at the Rogers-Atkins Gunter insurance agency in Tallahassee, Florida.
In 25 words or less, why are you running for office?
I’m running to continue my service. Our community needs a fighter who can get things done; that’s what I bring to the table.
Did you speak with anybody in your political party before deciding on running?
Yes.
Receive any encouragement?
Yes.
From whom?
Arthenia Joyner, Alex Sink, among others
Who do you count on for advice?
Local electeds, local community leaders, political professionals throughout Florida.
Who is your political consultant?
Tom Alte.
Campaign manager?
Amber Holland.
Who was the first person to contribute to your campaign?
Alex Sink.
Why did they donate?
She believes that we will be a voice for Democratic principles in Tallahassee and an advocate for my community.
Who, if anyone, inspires you in state government?
Arthenia Joyner.
Why do people mistrust elected officials and what are you going to do about it?
Because elected officials oftentimes simply don’t inspire trust. Those of us who aspire to represent the people must remain accessible and visible in the community so that people can interact with us and not just read about their representatives in the paper.
What are three issues that you’re running on? (You’re not allowed to say education or “improving the schools”)
Promoting community policing, raising the minimum wage, and expanding Medicaid in Florida.
What is a “disruptive” issue (i.e., ride-sharing) you are interested in?
I think the Fight for $15 movement is doing a great job of changing the conversation about wages. We’re all talking about paying a living wage that we can raise families on, which is critical to the future of Florida and my district.
What does your legislative district need from Tallahassee?
Simply put, we need jobs. I want to fight for jobs we can raise our families on in addition to raising wages, expanding Medicaid and promoting community policing.
Who was the best governor in Florida’s modern history?
Reuben Askew.
If you could amend the Florida Constitution, what would you change?
Amend to outlaw the death penalty.
Are yard signs an important part of campaigning in your district? Yes
What’s the first thing you read each morning?
Sunburn/Sayfie.
Where do you get your political news?
Various online sources.
Who do you think will be the next President of the United States?
Hillary Clinton.
60 Minutes or House of Cards?
60 Minutes.
Social media presence? Twitter handle?
@sshawfl (same Twitter and Instagram); campaign and personal Facebook accounts.
In 140 characters, what’s a tweet that best describes your campaign message?
We need a fighter in Tallahassee who can get things done for the people of District 61.
Hobbies?
Fishing, grilling.
Favorite sport and sports team?
College football – Florida Gators!
