Former State Senate President and current congressional candidate, Mike Haridopolos, appears to be cruising toward a big win in the upcoming August Republican primary election. Since Haridopolos entered the race in late April, the Melbourne Republican is in a strong position to win the race for Congressional District 8, which is currently held by Rep. Bill Posey (R).
When asked about the race, Haridopolos said, “We are taking nothing for granted. We are talking to voters every day, walking door to door, waving on street corners, and continuing to raise money to get out our conservative message. The border must be secured, we must rein in out-of-control federal spending, promote energy independence, and support our military and veterans.”
Haridopolos has secured the endorsements of both United States Senators from Florida, Marco Rubio and Rick Scott. He also earned the endorsements of the leaders of the United States Congress, Speaker Mike Johnson, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, Majority Whip Tom Emmer, and Conference Chairwoman Elise Stefanik. He also has the support of conservative champion Jim Jordan who chairs the House Oversight Committee.
Locally, Haridopolos has earned the endorsements of current Congressman Bill Posey, along with the members of Congress that surround the Congressional District 8, Congressmen Mike Waltz, Cory Mills, and Brian Mast. Both sheriffs in the district, Wayne Ivey from Brevard and Eric Flowers of Indian River County support his campaign.
Not only are federally elected officials and law enforcement backing Haridopolos, but so are state and municipal leaders, which include allow the commissioners that sit on the Brevard County Commission, as well as the Mayors of most cities in Brevard and Indian River counties. State Senator Erin Grall, as well as State Representatives Randy Fine, Chase Tramont, Thad Altman, Tyler Sirois, and Robbie Brackett, have also offered their support of Haridopolos.
But while endorsement helps and brings much-needed attention to any campaign, fundraising for any given position is still the most important factor when running for elected office.
In the first month of the campaign, Haridopolos has raised over $700,000, with about 95% of that money having come from inside the district. Given his past leadership positions in the Florida Senate, many believe Haridopolos will excel in the United States Congress due to his experience and ability to win big in elections.
The district is a solid Republican stronghold. Both Brevard and Indian River County have growing Republican numbers and retiring Congressman Bill Posey usually won re-election with over 60% of the vote. Haridopolos’ prior Senate district is found inside the current Congressional district. The Hill also forecasted a big win for Haridopolos, placing his chances for victory at 99%.
