The Florida Forward Party today announced its first official candidate endorsements, declaring its support for State House District 2 challenger Kim Kline and State House District 25 challenger Banks Helfrich.
Kline, who is running without party affiliation in the Pensacola area, and Helfrich, a registered Independent based in Southern Lake County, are both challengers to Republican incumbents in traditionally deep red areas. With both candidates already actively campaigning, the party hopes that the endorsements, as well as the support that follows, will be valuable momentum boosts.
“This is a huge step, and one that’s been a long time coming,” said Kline. “In my district, and in so many others throughout the state, there’s only ever one option in the general election. A lack of competition leads to a lack of accountability, and that leaves us with government that’s less and less transparent and responsive, with government that doesn’t serve its people. Creating a real alternative to the two major parties is a huge step to changing that.”
“It’s exciting to be a part of this movement,” added Helfrich, “to be here at the start to show people what a better kind of politics can look like. What brings me and Kim and this whole community together isn’t that we agree on every issue, but that we understand the importance of having a real conversation, and of welcoming ordinary citizens to that conversation, so that we can start building solutions together. People are hungry for that.”
As Florida Forward Party endorsees, Kline and Helfrich will receive a range of tools and resources from the state party, its national PAC counterpart, and partner organizations. They will also be connected to the party network of donors, supporters, and volunteers.
“Ultimately, the party succeeds if it can help the candidates succeed,” said Nate Smolensky, Florida Forward Party State Director. “What we’re trying to do here is bring together the strength of a credible party organization with the freedom of running independently. Combine that spirit with high quality candidates and viable paths to success, and you’ve got something really special.”
As the first official endorsees of the party, Kline and Helfrich will be taking part in the Forward FL Candidate Forum, to be held on June 13th in Maitland, FL.
