Ryan Nicol
The political arm of Equality Florida, a group that advocates for the LGBTQ community, is endorsing David Richardson for Miami-Dade County Tax Collector.
Richardson is a former member of the House who was one of the first openly gay lawmakers in the Legislature. In a statement announcing the group’s endorsement, Equality Florida Action PAC Chair Stratton Pollitzer recognized the potential history Richardson could make if he wins in November.
“Equality Florida Action PAC is proud to endorse LGBTQ trail blazer David Richardson for Miami-Dade County Tax Collector,” Pollitzer said.
“As a state lawmaker and a Miami Beach commissioner, David has been at the forefront of fighting for open and equitable government, and as a former forensic auditor and tax expert he’s a recognized champion of fiscal responsibility. We are all in to help David make history as Miami-Dade’s first countywide LGBTQ elected official.”
Richardson also released a prepared statement Tuesday thanking the group for backing his bid.
“I am deeply honored to earn the endorsement of Equality Florida Action PAC members,” Richardson said. “This recognition underscores our shared commitment to equality, justice, and strong advocacy from our elected leaders. As Tax Collector, I promise to serve every resident of Miami-Dade County with integrity and results while working tirelessly to ensure our government is accessible, transparent, and accountable.”
The endorsement adds to support Richardson has recently garnered from a pair of unions.
Republican candidates Bryan Calvo and Dariel Fernandez have also qualified for the contest, along with Richardson. Those two will face off in an Aug. 20 Primary for the GOP nomination, with the winner competing against Richardson in the Nov. 5 General Election.
This will be the first time since 1957 voters will choose a Tax Collector at the ballot box. A recent constitutional amendment will require the position — and others, such as Sheriff and Supervisor of Elections — to be elected by residents.
One comment
rbruce
July 16, 2024 at 10:22 am
How does being openly homosexual make one a better tax collector? It’s not the Tax Collector’s job to ensure equality, or justice. It’s his job to enforce appliable laws equally regardless of anything other than the letter of the law.