Jenna Buzzacco-Foerster
Carlos Beruff made it official.
On Wednesday, the Manatee County Republican’s campaign filed the paperwork to run for U.S. Senate. Beruff was not on hand in Tallahassee, but said in a statement that he is grateful for the support his campaign has received.
“Since launching my campaign, I’ve traveled to all 67 Florida counties. I’ve met with voters, local law enforcement and community leaders to hear their concerns and share my plan to bring business experience and real public service back to D.C.,” he said in a statement. “I feel stronger than ever about our campaign knowing the people of Florida are fed up with the status quo and tired of sending career politicians to represent them.”
Beruff is one of five Republicans vying to replace Marco Rubio in the U.S. Senate. He’ll face Ron DeSantis, David Jolly, Carlos Lopez-Cantera and Todd Wilcox in the Aug. 30 Republican primary.
Monday marked the first day of the pre-qualifying period. In Florida, candidates are allowed to submit their papers during a 14-day period ahead of the official start of the qualifying period. The official qualifying period for candidates runs from noon on June 20 until noon on June 24.
Beruff may be the first Republican to file his paperwork, but he isn’t the only U.S. Senate hopeful to do it this week.
On Monday, Democrat Patrick Murphy filed the necessary paperwork to formally enter the race. Murphy will face Alan Grayson and Pam Keith in the Aug. 30 Democratic primary.
