Bob Cortes continues to roll out endorsements in his bid to take back House District 30, announcing on Wednesday the endorsement of the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association Political Action Committee (CFHLA-PAC).
“Bob Cortes is a proven pro-business leader,” said Rich Maladecki, CEO of CFHLA. “This endorsement is a testament of CFHLA’s confidence in your commitment to serving as a ‘Tourism Champion’ in the Florida House,” said CFHLA in an email to Cortes.
CFHLA is one of Central Florida’s largest and most influential trade groups. The membership includes nearly 80% of the more than 125,500 hotel rooms in Orange, Seminole and Osceola counties, and over 500 “supplier”; organizations that do business with the hospitality and tourism industries.
Cortes, who is fresh off two straw poll victories on Monday against his opponent, Democratic Representative Joy Goff-Marcil, said he was honored to be endorsed by the organization.
“I am honored to have the support of the CFHLA,” said Cortes. “The hotel and lodging industry is vital to Central Florida’s economy. I look forward to working with this organization to help this important sector get through the current crisis and back in business.”
Today is just the latest win for the Republican, who continues to build momentum as November approaches. Along with today’s endorsement, Cortes has also secured several key endorsements from GOP 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.