Peter Schorsch
A couple more lawmakers came out in support of Sarasota Republican James Buchanan in the special election for House District 72, which was vacated by Alex Miller Sept. 1.
Future Senate President Bill Galvano endorsed Buchanan, saying that he knows the real estate agent and business owner “will be ready to hit the ground running” if elected to the Florida House.
“He will be an asset to our local delegation as someone who will help get things done,” the Bradenton Republican said.
Also backing Buchanan is Republican state Rep. Jim Boyd, who currently represents neighboring House District 71.
“James will be a great partner in the House. When it comes to passing tax relief for hardworking families or education reforms that help our children, I look forward to working with him,” he said.
Buchanan thanked the Galvano and Boyd for the endorsement, calling them “icons in the legislative process.”
“I am humbled by their endorsement and will seek to serve as they do,” he said.
In addition to being the son of Republican U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, Buchanan is an alumnus of Florida State University and the University of South Florida, where he earned an MBA.
Buchanan entered the race less than an hour after Miller said she would step down, and so far he is the only major party candidate to declare for the special election, though Libertarian Alison Foxall announced her candidacy shortly after Buchanan, ensuring the election will not go uncontested.
Gov. Rick Scott set the primary election for Dec. 5, if necessary, with the general election to follow on Feb. 13. The deadline for candidates to enter the race is Sept. 28.
