The last Democrat to hold a state Cabinet office is throwing her support to former U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham, D-Fla., for governor.
On Tuesday, former state CFO Alex Sink endorsed Graham for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination.
“I am supporting Gwen Graham for governor because I know she will be an outstanding leader for our state,” Sink said. “Gwen shares my commitment to investing in public education, protecting our environment and building a diverse economy for Florida.
“Now, more than ever, we need a leader who will defend Florida’s women and families,” Sink added. “Gwen is a proven dedicated public servant with strong values who I am confident will always put Floridians first.”
“It’s an honor to have Alex Sink’s support. She has been a trailblazer for Florida women in business and public service — and I wish I were running today to serve as Florida’s second woman governor,” Graham said. “With Alex’s support we will end 20 years of one-party Republican rule. Then, working together, we will restore our promise to public schools, protect our environment and expand health care.
Graham is facing a crowded Democratic primary which includes Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum, billionaire Jeff Greene, businessman Chris King and former Miami Beach Mayor Philip Levine.
Sink emerged in Florida politics in 2002 when her husband attorney Bill McBride was the Democratic gubernatorial candidate who fell short against then Gov. Jeb Bush, R-Fla. Sink won election in her own right, defeating state Sen. Tom Lee to become Florida’s CFO. She ran for governor in 2010 but came up short against Republican Rick Scott. Sink also lost to Republican David Jolly in a special election in early 2014 for an open seat in Congress.
Graham is not the only statewide candidate Sink is backing in 2018. She is also backing state Rep. Sean Shaw, D-Tampa, for attorney general.
Kevin Derby can be reached at Kevin.Derby@floridadaily.com.
- Ashley Moody Takes Legal Action Against Pro Pool Builders - December 8, 2023, 6:00 pm
- Gus Bilirakis Wants Coast Guard Investigation of Potential Oil Leak off Pasco’s Coast - December 8, 2023, 4:00 pm
- Jimmy Patronis: $31 Million in Unclaimed Property Returned to Floridians in November - December 8, 2023, 12:00 pm
