A.G. Gancarski
Nassau County Commissioner Barry Holloway ended his campaign in House District 11 on Monday, backing Cord Byrd for the GOP nomination.
“After much discussion with community leaders and citizens in Nassau County, I have decided to withdraw my candidacy for House District 11 and endorse HD 11 candidate Cord Byrd,” Holloway said. “The citizens of Nassau County deserve a State Representative who will focus on the needs of the entire House district, but most importantly Nassau County. With my withdrawal, I feel the candidate who best shares our values in the HD 11 race is Cord Byrd. I am confident that Cord’s election will ensure that Nassau County has an effective voice in the State Legislature.”
Holloway added that “Cord has spent the last four years immersing himself in Nassau County and listening to citizens concerns. He now is the only candidate truly qualified to serve in this seat, and I will be doing whatever I can between now and August 30th election to see that Cord wins this seat!”
Byrd, as one does when an opponent drops out and endorses him, returned the praise.
“I am honored to have the endorsement of Barry Holloway,” Byrd said. “Barry has been a tremendous public servant, and the citizens of Nassau Country trust Barry and trust his decisions. Having him join our team will guarantee Nassau County remains a strong part of House District 11.”
Holloway struggled with fundraising during the race, only raising $12,125 during over a year in the race, with only $1,300 coming in 2016.
Compared to fundraising leaders Sheri Treadwell and Donnie Horner, both of whom have raised over six-figures, Byrd likewise has not been especially dynamic in fundraising.
Through 16 months in the race, Byrd has raised just over $42,000, with just under $28,000 cash on hand.
The clear hope is that Holloway’s grassroots backing makes up for the money difference between Byrd and the two leaders in the money battle.
House District 11 encompasses Nassau County and part of Duval County. The winner of this race will replace termed-out Janet Adkins. There currently are no Democrats or Independents running on the district.
