Another week brought another victory for Republican Bob Cortes, as his campaign announced on Tuesday that the former state representative won another straw poll in his bid to take back House District 30.

Cortes’ latest straw poll victory comes from the 2020 Political Hobnob Primary Edition Straw Poll, sponsored by the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Cortes, who previously held the seat from 2014-2018, garnered 85% of the vote in Seminole County and 57% of the vote in Orange County, where more than 1,000 people participated.

This is the third straight straw poll win for Cortes who had previously garnered 92% of the vote of the East Side Regional Hob Nob straw poll, sponsored by the Oviedo-Winter Springs Regional Chamber of Commerce, and 74% of the vote of the Last Hoorah Hob Nob, sponsored by the Greater Sanford Regional Chamber of Commerce.

“It is a true honor to have the support of such an important organization to our community,” said Cortes. “When I’m back in Tallahassee, I will always support policies that help small business owners grow and prosper. They are the lifeline to Central Florida’s economy, and we need to provide them with the assistance they deserve during this time of economic recovery.”

Today is just the latest win for Cortes, who continues to build momentum as November approaches. Along with his streak of straw poll victories, 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 the Greater Orlando Builders Association, Associated Builders and Contractors, and BusinessForce.

Cortes was born in Brooklyn, New York before moving to Puerto Rico where he was raised. He moved Altamonte Springs before residing in Longwood where he founded two businesses: Cortes Towing Service and Cortrans Shuttle Service. Before being elected to the Florida House, Cortes served on the Longwood City Commission from 2009 to 2014.

He was first elected to the chamber in 2014 where he served as Vice Chairman of the Education Committee and the Transportation & Infrastructure Sub Committee. He also served as the Majority Deputy Whip from 2016 to 2018.

Following his departure from the House, Cortes remained active, serving on the Seminole State College board of trustees after being appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis last August. He also served on the governor’s transition team back in 2018.