Scott Powers
Former Miami Beach Mayor Philip Levine announced endorsements by state Rep.-elect Joe Casello and seven local officials for his Democratic gubernatorial bid Thursday.
Casello, who earned the open Palm Beach County-based House District 90 seat by default as the only candidate who qualified for election, is one of several of officials’ endorsements Levine picked up from the backyard of his Aug. 28 Democratic primary rival Jeff Greene of Palm Beach.
Levine and Greene also face former U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham, Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum, and Chris King in the Democratic primary.
Levine’s newest endorsements include those of former Miramar Mayor Lori Moseley, Lake Worth Commissioner Herman Robinson, and Aventura Commissioner Howard Weinberg.
Also, Levine announced the backings of Surfside Mayor Daniel Dietch, former Apopka Mayor Joe Kilsheimer, Miami Beach Commissioner Mark Samuelian, and Pensacola Commissioner Larry B. Johnson.
“Our next governor has to have the vision, but also the experience, to tackle our state’s biggest issues — that’s why I’m supporting Philip Levine,” Casello stated in a news release issued by Levine’s campaign. He understands that public service is about helping the community get ahead and his track record on Miami Beach proves it — he understands that input from local leaders is essential to moving our state forward. From fighting sea level rise to fighting for fair wages, Mayor Levine has what it takes to lead Florida into the future.”
