U.S. Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) has endorsed Emilio T. Gonzalez in his run for Miami mayor, his campaign announced this week.
“I’m proud to endorse my friend @EmilioforMiami for Mayor," Scott shared on social media. "With 26 years in the Army and service at every level, Emilio will make Miami a city where families thrive, businesses grow, and government works for everyone."
Citing their previous work while Scott was Governor of Florida, the Florida Senator said that Emillio "will bring that same dedication to the people of Miami.”
Gonzalez, who's running in a field with 12 other candidates, thanked Scott for his endorsement in a statement through his campaign.
“Senator Rick Scott, who served his country in the Navy, is a leader who understands what it means to put service before politics," Gonzalez said. “We’ve worked together to strengthen Florida’s economy, create opportunities for families, and make government accountable to the people it serves. I’m honored to have his support as we continue that mission here in Miami.”
Scott's backing is the latest endorsement for Gonzalez as he looks to succeed term-limited Mayor Francis Suarez in November's election.
Gonzalez has also received endorsements from Gov. Ron DeSantis, as well as several former law enforcement officials out of the South Florida area.
In addition, Gonzalez received an endorsement last week from the Log Cabin Republicans of Miami, which advocates for LGBT civil rights and building a more inclusive Republican Party, including support for more conservative LGBT members within the GOP.
With Scott and DeSantis in his corner, as well as some local support, Gonzalez could be positioning himself to take over Florida's second-largest city in a few weeks. He has also supplemented his support with several policy initiatives in his bid.
Battling Gonzalez for the city's job include Miami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins, Miami City Commissioner Joe Carollo, and former Miami mayor Xavier Suarez.
The election is Nov. 4.
