WASHINGTON – Today, Latino Victory Fund, the most influential national organization helping to build political power within the Latino community at every level of government, announced its support for five leaders in Florida. Latino Victory continues to invest in candidates up and down the ballot as part of its efforts to strengthen representation in Florida and mobilize the progressive vote in local, state, and federal elections.
Latino Victory endorsed Annette Taddeo for Clerk of the Court and Comptroller (Miami-Dade County), Carmen Torres for State Senate (District 23), Carlos Guillermo Smith for State Senate (District 17), David Arreola for Florida House of Representatives (District 22), and Max Tuchman for Miami-Dade County School Board (District 7).
“Given Florida’s pivotal role in our country’s culture, economy, and politics, Latino Victory is proud to continue investing in the Sunshine State. We are supporting candidates who will make progress for working people and make our government more representative,” said Latino Victory Fund President and CEO, Sindy M. Benavides. “Latino Victory will work with these exemplary public servants to engage and mobilize voters and build a better Florida from the ground up.”
Statement from Sindy M. Benavides, Latino Victory Fund President & CEO on Annette Taddeo:
“Annette’s journey from Colombia to the United States, her success as a small business owner, and her historic tenure as the first Latina Democrat in the Florida Senate exemplify her resilience and dedication to public service. Her commitment to transparency, accountability, and protecting taxpayers’ dollars, coupled with her track record of fighting for Miami-Dade residents, make her the ideal candidate for the office of Clerk of the Court and Comptroller. Latino Victory is confident that Annette Taddeo will bring the same integrity and determination to this vital role, as she has demonstrated throughout her distinguished career.”
Statement from Sindy M. Benavides, Latino Victory Fund President & CEO on Carmen Torres:
“Carmen has dedicated nearly three decades to community activism and empowering the residents of Central Florida. As a veteran volunteer of numerous campaigns, a proud union supporter, and co-founder of Hablamos Español FL, Inc., Carmen has tirelessly worked to bring more people into the political process. She is running to replace the only Democratic Latino State Senator in the state. Latino Victory is confident that as State Senator, Carmen Torres will continue to serve the residents of Central Florida with dedication, energy, and a passion for better representation.”
Statement from Sindy M. Benavides, Latino Victory Fund President & CEO on Carlos Guillermo Smith:
“As Florida’s first openly LGBTQ Latino lawmaker, Carlos Guillermo Smith has been a steadfast advocate for equality, housing affordability, healthcare, and education. He successfully secured millions in state funding to support Central Florida residents through critical community programs. His leadership and dedication to defending the rights and freedoms of all Floridians make him an exceptional candidate. Latino Victory is proud to support Carlos Guillermo Smith for State Senate.”
Statement from Sindy M. Benavides, Latino Victory Fund President & CEO on David Arreola :
“Born to Mexican immigrants and raised in Gainesville, David has dedicated his life and career to public service, and advocacy for his community. As the youngest city commissioner in Gainesville’s history, David championed gun safety, affordable living, and pandemic response policies. His commitment to improving lives is evident in his work with small businesses and his leadership roles in local organizations. Latino Victory understands that David Arreola’s passion for representing the underserved and his dedication to progressive change make him the ideal candidate to address the critical issues facing District 22 – and we are proud to support his campaign.”
Statement from Sindy M. Benavides, Latino Victory Fund President & CEO on Max Tuchman:
“Max’s career blends entrepreneurial success with a profound dedication to educational equity, exemplified by her creation of Caribu, an acclaimed educational platform. Her achievements, recognized by top industry accolades from Apple, TIME Magazine, and Forbes, reflect her innovative spirit and commitment to our children. With a strong background in education and public service, including her leadership in Teach For America and her role as a White House Fellow, Max brings a unique forward-thinking perspective to the School Board. Latino Victory is proud to support Max Tuchman’s visionary leadership that will drive significant advancements in Miami-Dade’s educational system, ensuring equity and excellence for all students.”
