Strengthening Latino Voices for Justice, Economic Opportunity, and Public Safety
Washington, DC, September 30, 2024 – Latino Victory Fund proudly endorses two transformative leaders, Congressman Darren Soto and Joel Flores, for the upcoming 2024 elections in Florida. Both candidates are committed to representing their communities and addressing the critical issues facing Latinos across the state, from economic security to public safety and housing.
“Florida’s future depends on leaders like Congressman Darren Soto and Joel Flores, who understand our communities’ needs and have a proven track record of delivering results. We are proud to endorse them and continue building Latino political power in Florida where the Latino community will impact elections up and down the ballot,” said Sindy Benavides, President and CEO of Latino Victory Fund.
Meet the Candidates: Advocates for Change
Darren Soto – Florida’s 9th Congressional District
Darren Soto is the first person of Puerto Rican descent elected to Congress from Florida. Since 2016, Soto has served his diverse district, focusing on economic development, infrastructure, and environmental protection. His leadership in Congress has brought millions in federal funding to Central Florida, benefiting everything from disaster relief to housing assistance and healthcare infrastructure. He continues to fight for Medicaid parity for Puerto Rico while also expanding high-tech job opportunities for Floridians.
“As the first Puerto Rican to serve in Congress from Florida, I’ve always focused on addressing the needs of our diverse communities—whether it’s driving economic growth, safeguarding our environment, or expanding access to healthcare,” said Darren Soto, U.S. Representative for Florida’s 9th District. “In these challenging times, we need bold leaders who truly understand our people’s struggles and can deliver real, lasting solutions. I’m honored to receive Latino Victory Fund’s support, and together, we will continue working to create a more inclusive and prosperous future for Florida’s working families.”
Darren’s deep connection to his community and passion for justice make him a critical voice in Congress. Backing Soto means securing Latino representation in a pivotal swing state and supporting Latino priorities at the national level.
Joel Flores – Palm Beach County Commission, District 3
Joel Flores, a decorated Army Combat Veteran and former Mayor of Greenacres, is dedicated to public service and protecting Florida’s working families. Running for the Palm Beach County Commission, Flores is poised to be the first Latino ever to serve on the Commission Board. His platform focuses on lowering housing and insurance costs, increasing public safety, and ensuring economic opportunities for small businesses and veterans in Palm Beach County.
As the district has a 24% Latino population, Joel’s candidacy represents a long-overdue shift toward authentic Latino representation. If elected, his leadership will prioritize inclusivity, economic growth, and protecting Florida’s working families.
“As a veteran and former mayor, I truly understand what it takes to serve and protect a community. Palm Beach County deserves leadership that reflects the people who call it home. If elected, I’ll be proud to become the first Latino on the County Commission—a long-overdue milestone. I’m deeply grateful for Latino Victory Fund’s endorsement, and I’m ready to fight for more affordable housing, safer neighborhoods, and opportunities for all our families to thrive,” said Joel Flores.
Why These Endorsements Matter
Florida is home to 5.7 million Latinos, making up nearly 27% of the state’s population (source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022). Latino Victory Fund’s endorsement of Soto and Flores isn’t just about electing qualified leaders—it’s about amplifying the Latino community’s voice and ensuring our representation in critical decision-making roles. Both candidates will work tirelessly to bring resources, jobs, and justice to Florida’s Latino population.
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The Latino Victory Fund is a progressive political action committee that aims to grow Latino political power by increasing Latino representation at every level of government—from the county board to the Senate to the White House.
