State Representative Fred Hawkins is the latest Florida Republican to earn Governor Ron DeSantis‘ seal of approval.

Hawkins, who resides in St. Cloud, was first elected in 2020 to the previous House District 42. With redistricting, the Republican is now seeking re-election in House District 35 — a newly drawn district that includes parts of Osceola and Orange counties.

DeSantis endorsed Hawkins on Twitter, pointing to the Osceola County commissioner’s record working for the people of Central Florida.

“[Representative Fred Hawkins] works hard for central Florida in the legislature. I’m proud to work with him in Tallahassee to get things done for Florida. I’m excited to fight alongside him this November,” DeSantis tweeted late Monday.

.@Hawkins4Florida works hard for central Florida in the legislature. I’m proud to work with him in Tallahassee to get things done for Florida. I’m excited to fight alongside him this November.

— Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantisFL) May 16, 2022

Hawkins retweeted the announcement and thanked DeSantis for his support.

” I am honored to receive the support of Governor DeSantis and look forward to continuing to work for Central Florida in Tallahassee.

Hawkins was one of three GOP lawmakers to earn the Governor’s backing on Monday. DeSantis also issued a pair of endorsements to Speaker-elect Rep. Paul Renner and Rep. Tom Leek.

Hawkins faces challenges from both sides of the political aisle in 2022. Republicans vying for the HD 35 include Kenneth Davenport and Diana Liebnitzky. Democrats running for the seat include Rishi Bagga, Tahitiana Alejandra Chaffin, and Tom Keen.

To date, Hawkins holds a massive fundraising advantage, having raised nearly $200,000 for his re-election bid, with about $115,000 on hand.

I am honored to receive the endorsement of @GovRonDeSantis and look forward to continuing to work for Central Florida in Tallahassee! #HD35 #hawkins4florida #FredHawkins pic.twitter.com/ovu6swHr0K

— Fred Hawkins, Jr. (@Hawkins4florida) May 16, 2022