For Immediate Release
Monday, September 21, 2026

Contact:
Sarah Bascom, sarah@bascomllc.com
Lyndsey Brzozowski, lyndsey@bascom.group

 

AIF Announces Additional Slate of Endorsements for 2026 Legislative Races
 
Tallahassee, Fla. – The Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) today announced an additional slate of endorsements for candidates running for the Florida House of Representatives in the 2026 General Election.
 
  • Matt Woodside, House District 31
  • Erin Huntley, House District 45
  • Brian Hawkins, House District 53
  • Melissa Rutland, House District 60
  • Dan Weldon, House District 64
  • Jordan Varnadore, House District 71
  • Nick Pachota, House District 74
  • Cathy Higgins, House District 89
  • Yoni Anijar, House District 100
  • Mery Lopez-Palma, House District 102
  • Bruno Barreiro, House District 113

“We’re proud to announce AIF’s 2026 General Election endorsements for Florida House candidates,” said AIF President and CEO Brewster Bevis. “These endorsements add to the strong slate of candidates we have supported throughout this election cycle—leaders who understand the challenges facing Florida’s employers and are committed to fostering economic growth, expanding opportunity, and helping keep lower costs for hardworking Floridians. We are confident these candidates will work tirelessly to strengthen Florida’s business climate, protect our state’s economic competitiveness, and ensure Florida remains a place where families, workers, and job creators can thrive. Voters can feel confident in the leadership and vision of these candidates and casting a ballot for them as they head to the polls this November.”

AIF’s Center for Political Strategy, launched in late 2023 with the goal of ensuring pro-business candidates – both Republican and Democrat – are elected to the Florida Legislature, plays an integral role in AIF’s endorsement process. Through the Center, candidates for state senate and house races were interviewed regarding their motivations for seeking office, priorities if elected, and stances on issues important to Florida businesses, helping to determine those who would be the most effective and reliable advocates for the business community if elected.

AIF does not endorse in every race and does not endorse in races that are unopposed.


Known as “The Voice of Florida Business” in the Sunshine State, AIF has represented the principles of prosperity and free enterprise before the three branches of state government since 1920. A voluntary association of diversified businesses, AIF was created to foster an economic climate in Florida conducive to the growth, development, and welfare of industry and business and the people of the state. For more information on AIF, please visit AIF.com and follow @VoiceofFLBiz.

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