Ryan Nicol
Republican candidate Matt Caldwell has hauled in a new endorsement from the Florida Chamber of Commerce as he continues his campaign to be Florida’s next Agriculture Commissioner.
Caldwell is competing against Democratic nominee Nikki Fried. But the Florida Chamber argues Caldwell’s experience makes him the superior candidate.
“Matt Caldwell is a seventh generation Floridian with roots firmly planted in Florida’s agriculture community,” said Mark Wilson, president and CEO of the Florida Chamber.
“His public service and dedication to ensuring Florida’s job creators and our economy remain strong are priorities that are good for Florida families.”
The endorsement is another note of good news for Campbell, who outraised Fried in the latest fundraising reports. Those financials hinted that support from the Florida Chamber would be coming. A committee tied to the group dropped $100,000 into Caldwell’s bid.
He’s also being joined on the campaign trail by current Ag. Commissioner Adam Putnam.
“Florida’s businesses and consumers alike need a tireless advocate with a proven track record and principled leadership to be the next Commissioner,” Rep. Caldwell said.
“There’s a right way and a wrong way to do the Commissioner’s job, and I will fight for more jobs, low taxes, policy know-how, and the future of all 21 million Floridians – no shortcuts.”
Joining the Florida Chamber in endorsing Caldwell was the Florida Police Chiefs Association (FPCA). The group praised Caldwell for his connection with the law enforcement community.
“Matt Caldwell listens to Florida’s law enforcement officers, and his positions closely reflect the FPCA’s priorities,” said Amy Mercer, the group’s executive director.
“As a member of the Florida House of Representatives, he demonstrated faultless commitment to law enforcement with his strong voting record and showed leadership through action in his community.”
Fried also netted a big-time endorsement of her own Thursday, when U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren said she was backing Fried. Warren has long been rumored as a potential 2020 presidential candidate.
