Wilton Simpson backs ‘principled conservative’ Liesa Priddy in HD 82
Republican Liesa Priddy is racking up endorsements in her bid for House District 82, with the latest nod coming from Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson.
“Liesa Priddy is precisely the kind of principled, commonsense conservative leader Florida agriculture needs in Tallahassee. Liesa understands what it takes to safeguard Florida’s family farms, defend private property rights, and preserve our rural communities. I am proud to support her candidacy,” Simpson said.
Simpson’s endorsement slots nicely alongside the range of major agricultural interests that have already thrown in for the Collier resident who works as rancher within the agrarian district. Priddy’s backers so far include the Florida Cattlemen’s Association, Florida Dairy Farmers and the Florida Farm Bureau.
“I am profoundly grateful for Commissioner Simpson’s endorsement. Commissioner Simpson has devoted a lifetime to championing Florida’s farmers, ranchers, and rural families, and his leadership — from the Right to Farm Act to the Florida Wildlife Corridor — has set a standard the rest of us can only aspire to. I will bring that same resolve to Tallahassee, fighting for the families, farms, and small businesses of District 82,” Priddy said.
Beyond the ag industry, Priddy’s campaign has locked in support from Collier Sheriff Kevin Rambosk and Hendry Sheriff Steve Whidden; Reps. Adam Botana and Yvette Benarroch; former Reps. Matt Hudson and Joe Spratt; LaBelle City Commissioner Barbara Spratt; Everglades City Mayor Howie Grimm; Naples City Councilman Scott Schultz; Hendry County School Board Member Amanda Nelson; and Hendry County Commission Chair Ramon Iglesias.
Notably, Rep. Lauren Melo has also lined up behind Priddy. Melo is the current incumbent in HD 82 but is vacating the seat early to run for Senate.