Jacob Ogles
Republican Party of Florida Chair Joe Gruters is endorsing Griff Griffitts in the Primary race for Florida House District 6.
The endorsement provides critical support for the open race in which Griffitts faces theater producer Brian Clowdus.
Griffitts, a Bay County Commissioner, has enjoyed a money lead in the Republican Primary, while Clowdus has portrayed himself as an outsider in the mold of former President Donald Trump, perpetually posting pictures of himself donning Trump clothing and memorabilia.
But Gruters, who co-chaired Trump’s Florida campaign arm in his successful 2016 White House run, brings with him serious Trumpworld bona fides.
“Griff Griffitts has proven himself to be a strong conservative and a powerful advocate for our constitutional rights and economic freedom,” Gruters said. “He strongly supports President Trump’s America First agenda and will be a trusted leader in Florida’s Legislature. It is my pleasure to endorse him for state Representative.”
Gruters, a Sarasota Republican, also serves in the Florida Senate and thus, has a legislative interest in the race.
“To have the support of Sen. Joe Gruters is a great honor for my campaign and my supporters,” Griffitts said. “Joe Gruters has been an incredibly loyal supporter of President Trump, and he’s a major reason why Florida is a Trump state. I look forward to working with Joe and other strong conservative leaders in the Legislature to continue making Florida a model state for the America First agenda.”
Griffitts previously picked up support from Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis and Panama City Mayor Greg Brudnicki, providing him with a base of local and state leaders backing his candidacy.
Griffitts raised $138,015 for his run through the end of October, compared to Clowdus’ $22,231. The Primary takes place in August, and only Republicans who filed will be decided at that stage.
The lines for all districts remain fluid with the reapportionment process underway. But two draft maps show little change to the Panama City-centered HD 6.
