Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt Hoffman announced his endorsement of Republican congressional candidate Sydney Gruters for District 16 in a statement this week.
District 16 was redrawn after the Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis approved Florida's new congressional map. The District now includes parts of five counties: DeSoto, Hardee, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, and all of Manatee.
"Sydney Gruters' roots in Sarasota County run deep, and so does her commitment to public service," Hoffman said. "With the recent redistricting, Sarasota County would be fortunate to have someone in Congress who understands this community, knows its needs and has a proven record of serving the people who call it home. Sydney is a workhorse, not a showhorse. She is a serious public servant who puts in the work, solves problems and delivers results. She shares our values and will be an effective voice for us in Washington. I am proud to endorse Sydney Gruters for Congress."
Gruters thanked Hoffman for his endorsement.
"Sheriff Hoffman has dedicated his career to protecting Sarasota County and serving this community with professionalism, integrity and steady leadership," Gruters said. "I am honored to have his support and grateful for the trust he has placed in our campaign. Public safety begins with leaders who listen, show up and do the work, and Sheriff Hoffman has set that standard in Sarasota County."
Hoffman's support follows several others for Gruters, including Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells and Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. Gruters announced her candidacy in April.
Gruters is looking to replace Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL), who is retiring. Buchan won the previous version of CD 16, which included Manatee and parts of Hillsborough County, by 19 points in 2024.
John Peters, Ed Pope, and Eddie Speir are also running on the Republican ticket. Jonathan Harris, Tamika Lyles, Kelly Kirschner, Glenn Pearson, and Jan Schneider are on the Democratic ballot.
The primary is Aug. 18, 2026, with the general election on Nov. 3.
