Ryan Nicol
Matt Caldwell, the Republican candidate for Agriculture Commissioner, has now raised more than $1 million since securing his party’s nomination last month.
Caldwell’s campaign says it has pulled in nearly $310,000 on its own.
That’s topped by contributions to his political committee, Friends of Matt Caldwell, which has earned nearly $725,000 during the general election alone.
“It is proof that Floridians are placing their trust in me,” Caldwell said of the financial support he’s received.
“This enthusiastic show of support statewide only reaffirms my conviction that Floridians want proven, principled leadership in the Department. I aim to give it to them.”
Including the primary, Caldwell has raised more than $3.5 million, according to campaign numbers. Caldwell has served in the state House since 2010.
He’s now competing with Democrat Nikki Fried for the position.
Caldwell also issued a statement regarding his vision for that role, and included a jab at Fried in the process.
“The Commissioner’s role is often misunderstood, even by people running for this very office,” Caldwell said.
“This race is not about a single issue. Floridians have more diverse needs that we must meet: Growing jobs, protecting our state’s precious resources, promoting Florida businesses, and shielding consumers from fraud.
“It is important that Florida’s next Commissioner come prepared with a profound understanding of these complex issues.”
