Orlando Democrat Chris King files to run for Governor in 2018

Orlando Democrat Chris King filed papers today with the Florida Secretary of State to run for Governor in 2018.

King. 38, will launch his campaign with an announcement in April, when he says he’ll lay out a fresh vision for what our state can and should be.

“I believe Florida can do so many things better if we have the courage to do things differently,” King said. “We’re going to run a campaign driven by a spirit of innovation and can-do optimism. We’re going to give voice to millions of Floridians who are struggling to make it and haven’t given up the hope that we can do better.  We are going to answer the call of every Floridian who wants a governor with the strength, vision and integrity to tackle important problems and provide innovative solutions.  And we are going to invite every Floridian who wants to rise up and be part of something big, bold, and better, to join this campaign.  I look forward to an exciting kick-off in April and an inspirational campaign to reclaim Florida’s bright future.”

King is taking this step today pursuant to Florida law, which requires this filing in order for a candidate to seek contributions or make expenditures with a view to win an election.

He joins Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum, who entered the race earlier this year.

A third generation Central Floridian, King graduated from Harvard University and earned his law degree from the University of Florida. He is the founder and CEO of Elevation Financial Group, which creates quality, affordable housing for seniors and families in Florida and across the Southeast, and leads a non-profit that offers mentorship to low-income Florida students to pursue their college dreams. Chris and his wife Kristen live in the Orlando area with their three young children.

He has been outspoken about his desire to see more affordable housing developed.

Gillum welcomed him to the race.

“Floridians in every corner of our state deserve a contest of ideas, and I’m looking forward to Chris adding his thoughts,” Gillum said in a statement his campaign issued. “Floridians deserve to hear how each candidate plans to create jobs at every level of the income ladder, ensure Florida’s children have both quality health care and a quality public education, and how we protect Florida as a welcoming place for immigrants, same-sex couples, and people of every faith and background. Our campaign is laser-focused on those issues, and I am excited to share my thoughts on how we can rebuild Florida into a state that works for all of us.”