Will Atkins approaches 6 figures in less than 2 months on HD 67 campaign trail

Image via Will Atkins campaign Facebook page.

House District 67 candidate Will Atkins has raised $89,000 in less than two months since he entered the race, according to his campaign.

Atkins is running to replace House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell, who is facing term limits. Atkins is one of two Democrats filed so far to replace her. His fundraising announcement comes just one day after Tampa City Council member Luis Viera entered the race.

Atkins is a U.S. Air Force veteran and former C-130 aircrew member who served in Afghanistan. He says he’s running to improve situations for working families and protect basic freedoms, including by ensuring government works for the people, not for political insiders.

“I am incredibly humbled by the overwhelming support our campaign has received in such a short period,” Atkins said. “This milestone reflects the strong desire for fresh leadership in District 67 — leadership that puts the needs of everyday Floridians first and brings new energy and ideas to Tallahassee.”

Campaign finance reports are not yet publicly available for Atkins, who entered the race in early February. The campaign did not provide donor specifics or expenditure information.

The fundraising sets a high bar for Viera as he begins his campaign. But Atkins’ fundraising so far has come before Viera’s announcement, meaning it will be worth watching whether the money trend now shifts toward Viera, who already holds elected office.

Still, Atkins says the robust fundraising at the start of his campaign highlights his momentum.

“Floridians are tired of the same empty promises from politicians who have spent years in office but delivered nothing,” Atkins said. “Our campaign is about fresh leadership, real solutions, and a Democratic Party that fights to win. We are building a movement powered by the people, and we won’t slow down until we bring real change to District 67.”

Atkins served 22 years in the Air Force, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Throughout his time in the armed forces, he was deployed six times to Iraq and Afghanistan. He also earned two Bronze Stars and a Legion of Merit. While serving his final tour, Atkins launched a small business out of Tampa making cinnamon packets for soldiers, something he says on his website was “simple,” yet “made life in the field just a little easier.”

With both Atkins and Viera in the race, the stage is already set for a competitive Primary. No Republican has yet filed for the seat, but a Democrat would be the favorite. Nearly 38% of the electorate are registered Democrats, compared to just 27% who are Republicans, according to the most recent L2 voter data.