The Democratic Progressive Caucus of Florida (DPCF) issued an open letter criticizing the Alexander Vindman campaign for its tone and conduct toward Rep. Angie Nixon (D-Jacksonville) this week.
"We write as Democratic leaders, volunteers, and grassroots activists from across Florida who are deeply troubled by the tone and conduct that have recently surrounded your campaign," the DPCF wrote in a statement. "Florida Democrats deserve a primary election focused on ideas, vision, and solutions; not personal insults, dismissiveness, or contempt toward fellow Democrats."
Specifically, the DPCF mentioned a social media comments by Rachel Vindman, Alexander Vindman's wife, for allegedly mocking an unnamed Democratic opponent's, possibly Rep. Nixon's, clothing and campaign. The DPCF also referenced a campaign staffer for Vindman mocking the prospect of debating Nixon in future by allegedly saying, "If Angie Nixon wants Alex to debate, she can debate his wife."
The DPCF called the comment "dismissive."
"Whether intentional or not, rhetoric that belittles a Black woman candidate, dismisses her as unworthy of direct engagement, or substitutes ridicule for substantive discussion sends the wrong message to Democratic voters," the DPCF said.
Vindman and Rep. Nixon are competing in the special Democratic primary for U.S. Senate on Aug. 18. The two candidates will likely face off against Incumbent Sen. Ashley Moody (R-FL) in the general election on Nov. 3.
"Our party should reject elitism and the notion that a campaign’s success is measured by mocking opponents. Every candidate has the right to make their case to voters, regardless of the size of their organization or budget," the DPCF added.
Democratic leaders and volunteers behind the letter included the following:
Brevard Progressive Caucus President Vance Ahrens
Democratic Progressive Caucus of Florida President Matthew Grocholske
Alachua County Progressive Caucus President Pat Farrell
Democratic Progressive Caucus of Marion County President Jean Marie Derrough
Orange County Democratic Progressive Caucus President Lindsay Snyder
Volusia Progressive Caucus President Gabrielle Adekunle
Broward County Democratic Black Caucus Corey Shearer
"This primary belongs to the people of Florida - not to campaign surrogates, political insiders, or social media personalities. Let the candidates debate, answer voters’ questions, and earn the trust of Floridians," the DPCF concluded.
