Republican candidate Bob Cortes continued to build momentum for his campaign to retake House District 30 on Wednesday, announcing the endorsement from a former colleague from across the aisle.
The latest endorsement to Cortes’ campaign comes from former State Representative Katie Edwards-Walpole. A Democratic member of the Florida House of Representatives, Edwards-Walpole represented the 98th District, which includes parts of Davie, Plantation, and Sunrise in southern Broward County, from 2012 to 2018.
“During these uncertain times, we need strong, unwavering leaders who know how to achieve bi-partisan solutions that put people first,” said Edwards-Walpole. “I endorse Bob Cortes because he is passionate about his community and will take pains to keep us safe while also working in smart ways to reboot our economy and increase access to better healthcare for all.”
Edwards-Walpole is just the latest to back the former state representative. Cortes has also secured several key endorsements from Republican leaders, including House Speaker-designate Chris Sprowls and Senate President-designate Wilton Simpson.
Cortes has also been endorsed by several groups, including the Greater Orlando Builders Association, Associated Builders and Contractors, and BusinessForce, Florida Chamber of Commerce, and the Florida Police Benevolent Association.
“I am grateful to Representative Edwards-Walpole for her endorsement,” said Cortes. “I look forward to putting politics aside and getting to work for the people of Central Florida to provide the results they deserve.”
Cortes, who served in the Florida House from 2014 to 2018, is eyeing a return to the political arena. The businessman is seeking to reclaim HD 30 this November — a seat that is currently held by Democratic State Representative Joy Goff-Marcil, who won the 2018 election.
As it stands, Cortes holds a solid fundraising advantage over his opponent and has amassed a streak of straw poll victories.
Cortes filed for a rematch against Goff-Marcil in late-April, citing his decision had nothing to do with himself or his aspirations but was based solely on the economic fallout from the coronavirus outbreak.