Florida Restaurants and Retailers Endorse DeSantis: ‘DeSantis’ Leadership Saved Countless Jobs’

TALLAHASSEE (FLV) – Gov. Ron DeSantis received the endorsements of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association and the Florida Retail Association.

DeSantis will face Democrat nominee Charlie Crist in the race for governor.

“Governor DeSantis’ leadership saved countless jobs and businesses across our state and has enabled our industry to thrive once again,” said Carol Dover, FRLA President & CEO. “He understands the critical role that hospitality and tourism play in our state’s economic vitality, and we are confident he will continue to do so in his second term as Governor.”

The governor spoke at the endorsement in Tampa Thursday. Florida’s unemployment rate hit a historic 2.7%. There were nearly 118 domestic visitors to Florida in 2021, making it the highest level in state history.

“Our restaurants and hotels have done better than anyone expected just a couple years ago. By keeping the state open, Florida has experienced record-setting tourism, our labor force growth outpaces the nation, and we have achieved record levels of unemployment and job creation,” DeSantis said. “Florida continues to prove that the Freedom Agenda works.”

Florida’s market share of overseas travelers was 44.6% of the nation’s total in 2021. Florida’s budget surplus also reached a record of $21.8 billion.

“Florida retailers are grateful for the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis. The Governor has remained committed to keeping Florida open for business and has enabled the retail industry to overcome these challenging times and prosper. We are proud to provide our endorsement of his campaign,” Florida Retail Federation President Scott Shalley said.  

The Florida State Lodge Fraternal Order of Police, Florida Police Chiefs Association, Florida Police Benevolent Association, Florida Professional Firefighters, and Florida Transportation Builders’ Association have also endorsed DeSantis.