Scott Powers
Democrat Dena Grayson is airing her first television commercial of the 2016 campaign in the Orlando-based Florida’s Congressional District 9 race, emphasizing both her work as a doctor and as a pharmaceutical researcher.
However, Dr. Grayson, of Windermere, never has been licensed to practice medicine in any state, though she does have a medical doctorate and practiced medicine during a residency in California more than 10 years ago.
The commercial, entitled “Meet Dr. Dena Grayson,” now playing in the Orlando market, is voiced-over by her husband and the congressman she wants to succeed in CD 9, U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson of Orlando. The two were married May 29.
She is in a four-way contest for the Democratic Aug. 30 primary, with state Sen. Darren Soto, Susannah Randolph and Valleri Crabtree. The winner will face the winner of the Republican primary, either Wanda Rentas or Wayne Liebnitzky.
As the video shows Dr. Grayson appearing to treat several patients, looking through a microscope and meeting people, Rep. Grayson says she “treated poor people for free” and notes her positions supporting several of his policies, including support for affordable health care for all Floridians, and expanding Medicare to cover eyes, ears and teeth.
“Our political system is sick. But this doctor will make it better,” Rep. Grayson says. “And that’s why she deserves our support.”
A press release from her campaign notes it is one of several ads that will appear before election day.
