The Associated Industries of Florida (AIF)–one of the leading business groups in the Sunshine State–threw its support behind state Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam for governor on Monday.
AIF’s Board of Directors endorsed Putnam who is running in next month’s Republican primary against U.S. Rep. Ron DeSantis, R-Fla.
Former U.S. Rep. Tom Feeney, R-Fla., the president and CEO of AIF, weighed in on why his group was backing Putnam.
“AIF Board of Directors is proud to endorse Adam Putnam for governor of the great state of Florida,” said Tom Feeney. “Adam knows Florida. He knows what it takes to raise a family, build a business and protect employees in our Sunshine State. He knows what it means to grow our economy and bring new and innovative business opportunities to Florida. Our next governor must embody the entrepreneurial spirit, and Adam has the know-how to get things done, putting Florida families and businesses first. AIF Board of Directors stand with Adam Putnam for the next governor of Florida.”
For his part, Putnam said he was happy to have AIF’s support.
“I am proud to have the support of the Associated Industries of Florida,” said Putnam. “AIF understands that our state’s prosperity is tied to the prosperity of our state’s job creators. I look forward to working with them as Florida’s next governor to build on our record-setting growth, continue to reduce taxes and unnecessary fees, and help Florida families find their piece of the American Dream right here in the Sunshine State.”
AIF is not the only business group backing Putnam in the gubernatorial contest. The Florida Chamber of Commerce is also behind Putnam. Some current polls show DeSantis, who has President Donald Trump’s endorsement, with a solid lead in the primary which is being held at the end of next month.