Frank White lands more major endorsements in Senate bid

A Panhandle Republican continues to get major endorsements in his state Senate bid.

Both Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis and Associated Industries of Florida are backing former state Rep. Frank White in his thus-far unopposed bid in Senate District 1.

Patronis’ endorsement “capped off a week of Panhandle endorsements,” in the words of the White campaign, and the CFO’s blessing was indeed regionally tailored.

“I may be biased, but Northwest Florida is as special as it gets. Our people have been tested by natural disasters, stood on the front lines of freedom, and fought for our families and businesses in the face of adversity in all forms,” said Patronis.

“Up here, we’re just built different. I’ve watched firsthand as Frank White has defended our family values. It’s easy to talk, but Frank has walked the walk, and I am proud to endorse him for State Senate. He will have big shoes to fill following Senator Doug Broxson, but I know Frank will continue the fight to keep Florida free.”

“During his time in the Florida House, Frank White was a strong advocate for Florida businesses, supported policies that helped strengthen our state’s economy and worked hard to protect the freedoms of his fellow Floridians. That’s why AIF is proud to endorse his campaign for Florida Senate District 1,” said AIF President and CEO Brewster Bevis. “Frank understands the importance of keeping Florida on the path to prosperity, and we are confident that in the Florida Senate, he will work to ensure that Florida businesses and residents alike continue to thrive.”

“I’m honored to earn the endorsement of Associated Industries of Florida,” said White in the release rolling out the AIF backing.

“As the ‘Voice of Florida Business,’ AIF has advocated to help foster sound, pro-business policies in the state and I look forward to standing with them once elected to continue that tradition and ensure Florida remains the best place to create and grow businesses in the country.”

The establishment continues to embrace White’s political comeback. Sen. Broxson endorsed White earlier in the week, as did state Reps. Alex Andrade and Michelle Salzman, and Florida Family Action.

This seat will very likely be a GOP hold.

SD 1 covers all of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties as well as part of Okaloosa County. Republicans have a strong advantage in the district, which re-elected Broxson by 42 points in November.