Veterans for America First (VFAF) announced its endorsement of Lt. Gov. Jay Collins for Florida governor in a statement released this week.
VFAF, originally founded as Veterans for Trump in 2015, praised Lt. Gov. Collins' "military background, conservative legislative record, and commitment to preserving individual liberty" in their support.
“VFAF was the first grassroots veterans organization to stand with President Trump before the political establishment understood what the America First movement would become,” VFAF President Robert Cornicelli said.
“Today, we are once again standing on principle. Jay Collins has demonstrated unwavering commitment to protecting Floridians from government overreach, defending our borders, supporting law enforcement, and confronting communist influence wherever it exists — whether abroad or attempting to infiltrate American institutions here at home," Cornicelli added.
More specifically, VFAF advocates for a strong national defense, veterans and first responders' rights, securing America's borders, and supporting candidates who put America First. In addition, VFAF's mission honors the principles of freedom, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Lt. Gov. Collins thanked the VFAF for its endorsement. Collins himself is a veteran, having served in Afghanistan, Iraq, and South America over a two-decade military career.
“It’s an honor to have the support of veterans who believe in the America First agenda,” Collins responded. “I served my country for 23 years in the U.S. Army, had my leg amputated due to service-related injuries, and I would do it all over again. I never planned on getting into politics, but I couldn’t sit back and watch the direction our country was going. Now, I’m grateful we have a president in office who understands Americans, values our service members, and never stops fighting to put America First.”
Collins also picked up an endorsement from the Volusia County Deputies Association earlier this week.
In addition, Collins has been endorsed by Santa Rose County Sheriff Bob Johnson, Taylor County Sheriff Wayne Padgett, Volusia County, and Interim Osceola County Sheriff Christopher Blackmon.
Collins is in a Republican primary with U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, and businessman James Fishback.
The primary is Aug. 18.
