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Reps. Hinson, McCurdy, Nixon, Morales Shut Down Florida House with Sit-In

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4 years ago

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Rep. Dotie Joseph, D-North Miami leads fellow Democrat protesters in prayer as debate stops on Senate Bill 2-C: Establishing the Congressional Districts of the State in the House of Representatives Thursday, April 21, 2022 at the Capitol in Tallahassee, Fla. The session was halted on the protest, but resumed after a brief recess. (AP Photo/Phil Sears)

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) – Florida House Democrats staged a sit-in on the Florida House floor in protest against Florida governor Ron DeSantis‘s Congressional map Thursday, temporary halting the vote.

It began with State Rep. Yvonne Hinson (D-Gainesville) speaking beyond her allotted time for comment. As debate on the bill, Senate Bill 2-C, wrapped up, Rep. Angie Nixon (D-Jacksonville) marched down the center aisle, shouting, “When Black votes are under attack, what do we do? Stand up and fight back.”

Consequently, Democratic lawmakers chanted and shouted as the final vote was tallied. Black lawmakers sat on the chamber floor, prayed and sang “We Shall Overcome.” Several stood in a circle, held hands, and prayed.

Rep. Dotie Joseph, D-North Miami leads fellow Democrat protesters in prayer as debate stops on Senate Bill 2-C: Establishing the Congressional Districts of the State in the House of Representatives Thursday, April 21, 2022 at the Capitol in Tallahassee, Fla. The session was halted on the protest, but resumed after a brief recess. (AP Photo/Phil Sears)

Rep. Dotie Joseph, D-North Miami leads fellow Democrat protesters in prayer as debate stops on Senate Bill 2-C: Establishing the Congressional Districts of the State in the House of Representatives Thursday, April 21, 2022 at the Capitol in Tallahassee, Fla. The session was halted on the protest, but resumed after a brief recess. (AP Photo/Phil Sears)

African American State Representatives Hinson, Nixon, Travaris McCurdy (D-Orlando), Felicia Robinson (D-Miami Gardens), Geraldine Thompson (D-Orlando), Dotie Joseph (D-North Miami), along with several others, protested against DeSantis’s map, which erased two African American Democratic congressional districts.

Reps. McCurdy and Nixon wore shirts that read, “Stop the Black Attack,” and Rep. McCurdy chanted the same.

The visceral reaction extended beyond the Black lawmakers. State Rep. Anika Omphroy (D-Lauderdale Lakes) comforted her Caucasian colleague Rep. Robin Bartleman (D-Weston), who cried as she witnessed the sit-in.

Rep. Tray McCurdy, D-Orlando and Rep. Angie Nixon, D-Jacksonville sit on the Florida Seal in protest as debate stops on Senate Bill 2-C: Establishing the Congressional Districts of the State in the House of Representatives Thursday, April 21, 2022 at the Capitol in Tallahassee, Fla. Rep. Daisy Morales, D-Orlando, joins the protest, holding a sign. The session was halted on the protest. (AP Photo/Phil Sears)

Rep. Tray McCurdy, D-Orlando and Rep. Angie Nixon, D-Jacksonville sit on the Florida Seal in protest as debate stops on Senate Bill 2-C: Establishing the Congressional Districts of the State in the House of Representatives Thursday, April 21, 2022 at the Capitol in Tallahassee, Fla. Rep. Daisy Morales, D-Orlando, joins the protest, holding a sign. The session was halted on the protest. (AP Photo/Phil Sears)

State Rep. Daisy Morales was the lone Hispanic involved in the sit-in. “Our democracy is being attacked. The governor eliminating two Black Congressional seats is a power grab and it’s wrong,” State Rep. Morales said in a written statement following the vote. “Stripping seats from Black representation is the same as saying the Black voice–the Black vote–doesn’t matter.”

The sit-in triggered a brief recess, after which the votes were cast. The bill passed 68-38 along party lines.

“With this map passing, I’m deeply concerned because it means he’ll likely target the one and only Puerto Rican representing Florida in Congress next, Darren Soto, all in the name of catering to his party,” Rep. Morales added in her statement. “We don’t want to disenfranchise the 1.2 million Puerto Ricans in Florida.”

“What we see today is an overreach, and it’s something we see as unacceptable,” said Rep. Kamia Brown (D-Orlando), Legislative Black Caucus Chair, to reporters after the session. “Today was one thing we could not just take and stand. … We’re sick and tired of being sick and tired.”

____________________________________________

Mellissa Thomas is Editor for Florida National News. | mellissa.thomas@floridanationalnews.com

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Florida

Vilchez Santiago Wins Union Backing; Daisy Morales Says Voters — Not Political Endorsements — Decide Elections

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1 week ago

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July 10, 2026

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ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — The Democratic primary for Florida House District 43 intensified this week after candidate Samuel Vilchez Santiago announced endorsements from a coalition of labor organizations, prompting former State Rep. Daisy Morales to respond that while endorsements are important, elections are ultimately decided by voters.

Vilchez Santiago announced support from 12 labor organizations, including the Florida AFL-CIO, Central Florida AFL-CIO, SEIU Florida, the Florida Education Association, the Orange County Fire Fighters Association, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1625, the Orange County Classroom Teachers Association, the United Auto Workers, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 606, the Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 517, SMART Transportation Division PAC, and the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1596.

“I am incredibly honored to earn the support of these outstanding labor organizations,” Vilchez Santiago said.

He said the endorsements were especially meaningful because he grew up in a union household.

“These endorsements are deeply personal to me. As someone who grew up in a union household, I understand firsthand that unions create pathways into the middle class and give working families the opportunity to build a better future.”

Vilchez Santiago said he would continue advocating for workers’ rights and policies that strengthen Florida’s middle class if elected.

Morales Congratulates Opponent, Recognizes Union Members

In response, Morales congratulated Vilchez Santiago on receiving the endorsements while recognizing the contributions of organized labor across Florida.

“I congratulate Mr. Vilchez Santiago on earning the support of these organizations and appreciate every group that participates in our democratic process,” Morales said.

Morales praised union members working as teachers, firefighters, law enforcement officers, healthcare professionals, skilled trades workers, transportation employees and others who contribute to Florida’s economy.

“Every worker deserves respect, opportunity, safe workplaces, fair wages, and the opportunity to achieve the American Dream.”

Morales Points to 2020 Democratic Primary

Morales said endorsements are valued but do not determine election outcomes.

She cited the 2020 Democratic Primary for Florida House District 48, when Vilchez Santiago received endorsements from elected officials, political organizations and advocacy groups before Morales defeated him and three other Democratic candidates to win the Democratic nomination.

Following that election, Florida Politics wrote that endorsements “didn’t matter” after Morales emerged victorious.

“That election demonstrated a principle that remains true today,” Morales said. “Political endorsements are valued expressions of support, but they never replace the judgment of the voters. The people—not political insiders or special interests—have the final say on Election Day.”

Morales later won the general election and represented House District 48 from 2020 to 2022.

Contrasting Campaign Messages

The exchange highlights the different messages each campaign is emphasizing as the Aug. 18 Democratic primary approaches.

Vilchez Santiago has focused on labor support, workers’ rights, affordability, housing, healthcare and reducing the influence of special interests.

Morales has centered her campaign on her legislative experience, bipartisan record and accomplishments during her term in the Florida House.

Morales said her official legislative record includes sponsoring and co-sponsoring more than 110 bills during the 2021 and 2022 legislative sessions and helping secure more than $12.5 million in state appropriations supporting higher education, healthcare, workforce development, nonprofit organizations, infrastructure improvements and community projects.

Among the legislative priorities Morales highlighted were educational opportunities for disabled veterans, property tax relief, consumer protection, public safety, workforce development, healthcare initiatives, infrastructure investments and services benefiting veterans, seniors and individuals with disabilities.

“Working families deserve representatives who deliver results—not just campaign promises,” Morales said.

Leadership and Experience

Morales said voters should evaluate candidates based on their accomplishments in public office.

“There is a clear difference in this race. My opponent is asking voters to consider who has endorsed his campaign. I am asking voters to examine my record of public service, legislative accomplishments, and proven results. Experience matters because results matter.”

She encouraged voters to review her official legislative record on the Florida House of Representatives website, which includes sponsored and co-sponsored legislation, committee assignments, voting history and appropriations.

Primary Election Approaches

The Democratic primary for Florida House District 43 will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026, with early voting scheduled for Aug. 3–16. The winner will advance to the Nov. 3 general election.

House District 43 includes portions of east Orange County, including Azalea Park, Union Park, Alafaya, Orlando, Rio Pinar and surrounding communities.

Both campaigns are expected to continue emphasizing their respective strengths as voters begin casting ballots in one of Central Florida’s most closely watched Democratic legislative primaries.

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Florida

Alex Vindman Campaign Highlights New Endorsements, Fundraising in Florida U.S. Senate Race

Published

1 week ago

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July 10, 2026

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FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Alex Vindman is highlighting growing campaign momentum following a series of endorsements, strong second-quarter fundraising and recent polling showing a competitive race against Republican Ashley Moody.

Campaign Raises $8.5 Million in Second Quarter

Vindman’s campaign announced it raised $8.5 million during the second quarter of 2026 from more than 114,000 unique donors.

According to the campaign, the average contribution was $35, which it says reflects broad grassroots support as the Senate race intensifies.

Veterans Caucus Endorses Vindman

The Democratic Veterans Caucus of Florida endorsed Vindman on July 10, citing his military service and leadership.

“Lt. Col. (Ret.) Alex Vindman has committed his life to serving our nation and protecting our freedoms,” said Democratic Veterans Caucus President Danny Fuqua. “During his 21-year Army career, he served presidents of both parties, and we know he will focus on representing Floridians, not special interests.”

Vindman thanked the organization and pledged to focus on lowering costs for Floridians, combating corruption in Washington and supporting veterans.

Debra Tendrich Announces Endorsement

On July 8, Lake Worth Beach Commissioner Debra Tendrich endorsed Vindman, describing him as an independent-minded leader who would prioritize Florida families.

“Floridians deserve leaders like Alex who will stand up for our interests,” Tendrich said.

Vindman contrasted his campaign with Republican opponent Ashley Moody, saying he would focus on reducing housing, insurance and utility costs while refusing contributions from corporate special interests.

State Sen. Tina Polsky Backs Campaign

State Sen. Tina Polsky became the latest Democratic lawmaker to endorse Vindman on July 6.

Polsky praised Vindman’s willingness to challenge corruption and said he would fight for affordable health care and lower costs for Floridians.

Vindman reiterated his campaign’s message that he will not accept contributions from corporate political action committees and will focus on addressing rising living expenses.

Competitive Senate Race

The campaign said multiple recent polls show Vindman running in a competitive contest against Republican Ashley Moody, setting the stage for one of Florida’s most closely watched races in the 2026 election cycle.

The general election is scheduled for Nov. 3, 2026.

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Central Florida News

Labor Unions Back Samuel Vilchez Santiago as Democratic Primary Battle With Daisy Morales Intensifies

Published

1 week ago

on

July 9, 2026

By

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Democratic candidate Samuel Vilchez Santiago has announced endorsements from a coalition of labor organizations as he seeks the Democratic nomination for Florida House District 43, setting up a high-profile primary contest against former State Rep. Daisy Morales.

The endorsements come as both candidates intensify their campaigns ahead of Florida’s Aug. 18 Democratic Primary, where voters will decide who advances to the November general election.

Broad Labor Coalition Backs Vilchez Santiago

Vilchez Santiago announced support from 12 labor organizations representing workers in education, healthcare, public safety, transportation, construction and other industries.

The endorsing organizations include:

  • Florida AFL-CIO
  • Central Florida AFL-CIO
  • SEIU Florida
  • Florida Education Association
  • Orange County Fire Fighters Association
  • United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1625
  • Orange County Classroom Teachers Association
  • United Auto Workers
  • International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 606
  • Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 517
  • SMART Transportation Division PAC
  • Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1596

Vilchez Santiago: ‘These Endorsements Are Deeply Personal’

In announcing the endorsements, Vilchez Santiago said organized labor has shaped both his family’s experience and his policy priorities.

“I am incredibly honored to earn the support of these outstanding labor organizations,” Vilchez Santiago said.

He added:

“These endorsements are deeply personal to me. As someone who grew up in a union household, I understand firsthand that unions create pathways into the middle class and give working families the opportunity to build a better future.”

Vilchez Santiago pledged to continue advocating for workers’ rights if elected to the Florida House.

Primary Contest Revives Familiar Political Rivalry

The endorsements add another chapter to an increasingly competitive Democratic primary between Vilchez Santiago and Morales.

The two candidates previously faced each other in the 2020 Democratic primary for what was then Florida House District 48. Morales defeated Vilchez Santiago and went on to win the general election, serving one term in the Florida House from 2020 to 2022.

Following legislative redistricting, both candidates are now seeking the Democratic nomination in House District 43, creating a rematch between two well-known Democratic figures in Central Florida politics.

Competing Messages to Democratic Voters

Vilchez Santiago has centered his campaign on issues including workers’ rights, affordable housing, healthcare access and support for organized labor.

Morales has emphasized her legislative record, highlighting more than 110 bills she sponsored or co-sponsored that became law, as well as funding secured for local projects during her time in office. Her campaign has argued that voters should compare legislative accomplishments and experience when choosing their next state representative.

The labor endorsements provide Vilchez Santiago with additional organizational support as both campaigns work to mobilize Democratic voters before early voting begins.

Key Background

Samuel Vilchez Santiago

  • Democrat seeking election to Florida House District 43.
  • Former chairman of the Orange County Democratic Party.
  • Previously served as Senior Manager at ActBlue.
  • Was the Democratic nominee defeated by Daisy Morales in the 2020 House District 48 primary.

Daisy Morales

  • Former Florida State Representative (2020–2022).
  • Former Orange County Soil & Water Conservation District Supervisor.
  • Campaigning on her legislative experience, bipartisan accomplishments and record of securing funding for Central Florida communities.
Race to Watch

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