The Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) announced its endorsement of Democrat Mike Suarez for House District 64 in a press statement this week.
“Associated Industries of Florida is proud to endorse Mike Suarez in the Democratic primary for Florida House District 64,” said AIF President and CEO Brewster Bevis. “Mike brings decades of leadership experience, deep community roots, and a strong understanding of the issues impacting Florida’s job creators and working families. Through his service on the Tampa City Council, numerous community boards and his professional career as an insurance agent, Mike has consistently demonstrated a commitment to economic growth, smart infrastructure investment, and policies that help communities thrive.
HD 64 covers northwestern Hillsborough County, including parts of Tampa. Rep. Susan Valdes (R-Tampa) currently represents HD 64 but cannot seek reelection due to term limits.
Known as "The Voice of Florida Business," the AIF has represented the principles of prosperity and free enterprise before the three branches of state government since 1920. It was also founded to promote an economic environment in the state "conducive to the growth, development, and welfare of industry and business and the people of the state."
Suarez is a Tampa native and served on the Tampa City Council from 2011 to 2019. He has also served on several boards, including Lowry Park Zoo, Florida Aquarium, Tampa Museum of Art, and the Metropolitan Planning Organization.
He thanked the AIF for its endorsement.
“I’m honored to earn the endorsement of the Associated Industries of Florida and grateful for their support of our campaign,” Suarez said. “Throughout my career in both public service and the private sector, I’ve worked to bring people together to solve problems and strengthen our communities. I look forward to working alongside AIF to advance policies that support Florida families, small businesses, and our growing economy.”
Luis Salazar, Jose Sanchez-Sanchez, and John Rodriguez are also running in the Democratic primary. Njallssen Amaro Lionheart and Angel Ramos are running on the Republican ticket.
Valdes, then a Democrat, won the seat with over 52% of the vote in 2024.
The AIF has also made several other endorsements, including for Republican Anthony Bonna earlier this month.
