In his bid to become Florida’s next Agriculture Commissioner, Senate President Wilton Simpson (R) has picked up endorsements from the NRA, President Donald Trump (R), and Florida’s Chamber of Commerce. Adding to his growing list of endorsements, Simpson has picked up the support of Florida’s Attorney General Ashley Moody (R) and Florida’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis (R).
The endorsements come after Army veteran Chuck Nadd (R) announced his intention to run for the position.
In a statement, Moody praised the Senate President’s efforts, commenting that “as a successful businessman, Wilton Simpson knows that public safety is the foundation of a thriving economy.”
“Throughout his time in the Senate, Wilton has always helped give our men and women in law enforcement the resources and tools they need to keep our state safe,” Moody added, saying that Florida needs “leaders who wholeheartedly believe in the rule of law on the Florida Cabinet,” which makes Simpson the best candidate in her opinion.
Patronis echoed in her remarks, citing that Simpson understands what the state fiscally needs.
“As a farmer, a father and a businessman, Wilton Simpson is passionately invested in Florida’s future,” Patron said, adding that Simpson “is a leader in the conservative revolution and he is delivering for hardworking families and small business owners.”
Patronis highlighted that Simpson has made fiscal impact “on our state’s AAA credit raiting, our balanced budget, and low unemployment rate.”
Simpson thanked both Moody and Patronis for their endorsements, saying that “Moody has put Floridians’ safety, the rule of law and our brave law enforcement officers first” and that “Jimmy has worked hard to advocate for Florida’s first responders and affectively keep watch over Florida’s checkbook.”
Republicans James Shaw and Richard Olle are challenging Simpson in the Republican primary while Ryan Morales is the sole Democrat running for the position.
