David Smith gets firefighters union backing in HD 28 race

Seminole County’s David Smith is among the wave of veterans newly elected to the Florida Legislature.

Republican state Rep. David Smith has received the backing of a Seminole County firefighters union for his reelection in House District 28.

Smith, a freshman lawmaker, announced that he has been endorsed by the Seminole County Professional Fire Fighters Union, Local 3254, which represents firefighters, paramedics and others in the Seminole County Fire Department.

HD 28 represents northeastern Seminole County. Smith, of Winter Springs, is running against Democrat Lee Mangold of Casselberry in the 2020 election

The same union local endorsed Smith in 2018. In that election, Smith defeated Mangold 51-49.

In a formal endorsement letter, Jon DiVita, president of Local 3254 of the International Association of Fire Fighters, stated, “You are a true leader and we are grateful you are running for re-election. The state of Florida needs your continued leadership and we are honored to have you representing us in Tallahassee. The four hundred hardworking men and women who respond to emergencies throughout Seminole County have your back.”

In a news release, Smith responded to the union’s endorsement by stating, “I’m humbled almost beyond words for such a bold statement supporting my reelection to the Florida House of Representatives. I greatly appreciate the trust and confidence these dedicated professionals have placed in me and will continue to do my very best to support all first responders in our state.”