Ryan Nicol
Democrats just got a helping hand in their efforts to turn a Palm Beach County Commission seat blue: U.S. Rep. Ted Deutch has endorsed Robert Weinroth in the race for District 4.
The contest serves as a harbinger for Democrats’ hopes on a national level, as Republicans have represented District 4 since its inception in 1988.
Despite that, Weinroth is seen as the favorite in the race after Boca Raton Mayor Susan Haynie was forced to withdraw her bid following a corruption scandal that ended in her arrest.
If Democrats are indeed poised to flip this seat, it could signal good fortunes for the party in November. A high-profile endorsement from Rep. Deutch shows the party is taking this race seriously.
“On the Boca Raton City Council, Bob was a champion on the issues mattering most to constituents,” said Deutch in a statement announcing his endorsement.
“On the Palm Beach County Commission, I know that he will continue his legacy of creating jobs, battling the opioid epidemic, protecting our beaches and the environment, and promoting sensible gun safety policies. I’m excited by the prospect of having Bob as a partner in government on the county level.”
Weinroth was thankful for the support, saying, “I have known Rep. Deutch for many years and I am proud to call him my congressman. In addition to his leadership on legislative issues, he and his staff have always greatly impressed me by their commitment to constituent services. I look forward to continuing our close working relationship once elected to the Palm Beach County Commission.”
Weinroth currently serves on the Boca Raton City Council, but has decided not to run for re-election to pursue the County Commission seat. Weinroth has raised more than $90,000 in the race while his only declared opponent, Republican William Vale, has raised just over $3,500.
