Unfortunately, from our perspective we have a host of uninspiring Congressional races. We have opted to pass on most of the primary races, including CD-5, the most watched Democratic congressional primary in the state,.________________________________
In the hotly-contested primary in CD-5 between Alvin Brown and Al Lawson we have two career moderates talking progressive. While Brown’s themes have been appealing to us, his record as Mayor of Jacksonville wasn’t one progressives could completely embrace. Lawson’s voting record and prioriites much like his legislative career resemble a zig-zag of giveaways to special interests. We were tempted by Brown who is playing progressive now, but ultimately couldn’t reconcile some of his actions as Jacksonville Mayor with the idea of an endorsement.
As for Lawson, it’s understandable why Tallahassee politicos continue to support him, but it’s tough to justify support from progressives. One of the issues around this district is the representation tussle between two major cities, Jacksonville and Tallahassee that have been placed in the same Congressional District to pack Democratic votes. On this score, Lawson deserves credit for trying to bridge the gap between the two major locales in his district, but again we don’t recommend either candidate.
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In District 7, Chardo Richardson has emerged as a strong progressive voice against the disapointing incumbent Stephanie Murphy. While many party insiders claim CD-7 is unwinnable by a traditional liberal Democrat, we strongly disagree. Richardson has impressed on the trail and even if he loses this race he should pursue office again. He’s made a point of talking economic and social justice in a cycle where Democrats like Murphy despite growing energy and etnhusiasm around these issues are playing far too safe. We endorse Richardson’s candidacy enthusiastically.
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Congressional District 15 features Andrew Learned who has a lot to learn in terms of how he handles the rough-and-tumble world of politics, but he’s got plenty of promise and is worth taking a flier on so to speak. His platform and messaging have been outstanding. The winner of this primary will face the winner of a hotly contested GOP primary that includes Ross Spano and Neil Combee. Dennis Ross, the incumbent is retiring. Lean to his credit was in the race from last year and was ready to challenge Ross directly before the incumbent stepped away.
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Pam Keith is a star candidate, but a star the Democratic Party establishment continues to reject for reasons probably related to Keith’s willingness to think independently and speak her mind effectively. We whoelheartedly endorse her run against Lauren Baer, the party establishment choice for the right to take on incumbent, Brian Mast in November. Keith’s extensive knowledge of foreign affairs coupled with her unique perspectives on social justice make her the only Demnocrat who can reasobaly challenge Mast.
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We’ve also opted to endorse Dr. Jennifer Zimmerman in CD-1, a promising candidate whose running in the Panhandle for the right to take on Matt Gaetz, one of the worst public officials in the country. Zimmerman has amssed lots of grassroots support and has been forceful in her advocacy for Florida’s Gulf Coast beaches.
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Our Congressional Endorsements:
Dr. Jennifer Zimmerman – US House District 1
Chardo Richardson – US House District 7
Andrew Learned – US House District 15
Pam Keith – US House District 18
We’ll have select local race endorsements and that of State House and State Senate in the coming days.
The Florida Squeeze 
Brown seems genuinely to the left this time.
Good call on Pam Keith over Lauren Baer!
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Is this it as far as endorsements are concerned? What should progressives do in congressional races south of the Treasure Coast? There are some good people running in CD 27. What about David Richardson?
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That’s an interesting race to say the least. Multiple good candidates there. Not sure who to get behind. We talked about CD-27 but couldn’t determine who was the best progressive choice.
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Time;s a wasting!… People need help with who to get behind. Dems need unity to be strong (Vote Blue whatever you do) So let’s settle our differences and get behind our candidates in NUMBERS to Win! Winning has never mattered more, yes? There’s no time left for wishy-washy!!! My Ballot for the Primary had to go in on time, as did hopefully millions of others without the benefit of your rationals… I feel confident that my research will prove effective, but I seriously wonder that millions of others did such diligent work in time. I’m steadfastly progressive, but not so much that I can’t make a choice for a strong democratic hopeful, hell even a weak democrat is better that giving the steering wheel to a republican!
Oh, and can SOMEBODY figure out how to make the “Remember me” button work so I don’t have to log in every time I comment or give a thumbs up!!!
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Sup fam! His name is spelled “Learned”
I’m here to support 🙂
Sean Sorbie (727) 458-8583
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Thanks. This is what happens when you collaborate on something and don’t catch errors. Thanks mate!
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John Russell is endorsing Taeger in CD 12 as he is the only true progressive voice in this race. As the Democratic Nominee in CD 5 in 2006 and 2008, I can only advocate against the party establishment choice Chris Hunter who represents an eminent threat to progressive values should he be elected. Hunter “plays ball” with the moneyed elite and as the Establishment “Puppet” he will actively OPPOSE progressive change should he be elected. Hunter says that he wants to “defeat” Russia… How in the hell does he propose to do that? Hunter opposes Medicare for All…
I voted for Taeger in the CD 12 primary as he is independent and espouses progressive policy. As a strong progressive voice, I encourage those who have yet to vote, to cast their vote in the CD 12 Democratic primary for Taeger as well. I encouraged Perenich early on to drop out of the race as his candidacy only muddies the waters as he has no appreciable campaign.
John Russell, Dade City.
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People are confused. No wonder we can’t win elections. Why can’t someone take a copy of this complicated document we call a ballot and circle or publish the people you want us to vote for and how we should vote on each Amendment. It’s very confusing and we are confused . Do something just criticizing the gops and trump is not enough PROVIDE GUIDANCE, PLEASE to the people!!
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