Former Senate President Mike Haridopolos announces run for Congress following Bill Posey retirement

INDIAN HARBOUR BEACH, Fla. – Former Florida Senate President Mike Haridopolos announced his candidacy for Florida’s 8th Congressional District after fully qualifying for the 2024 election on Friday.

Haridopolos received the endorsement of multiple conservative figures in Florida politics, including current district eight Republican Rep. Bill Posey, who is set to retire at the end of the year.

Mike’s conservative values and work ethic are superior and unlike others who have filed to run against me, Mike has never lied to me or tried to undermine efforts to represent our district,” Posey said in a statement.

“Mike knows our district and has stayed involved at local, state, and federal levels,” he added. “He is clearly the kind of representative we need in Congress, and I have no doubt he will excel in the job.”

Haridopolos thanked Posey for his work as a representative and committed to uphold his if elected to Congress.

“Our nation is facing unprecedented problems here at home and overseas,” Haridopolos said in a press release. “Our Southern Border is in chaos. Illegal immigration is out of control. Higher prices are crushing our families and killing the American dream. It’s a mess, and we need leaders in Congress to stand up and fix it.”

“I am no stranger to navigating legislative discord to get results for the people, and I pledge to bring my private sector and leadership experience to Washington DC to get the job done. As your Congressman, I will stand with President Trump and his America First Agenda,” he said.

Conservative political strategist and internet personality Alex Bruesewitz expressed his strong support for the former Senate president in a statement to Florida’s Voice.

“Few people have been as loyal to President Trump and the MAGA movement over the years as Mike Haridopolos,” he said.

“I’m confident the full weight of the MAGA movement will lineup behind Mike in this race. Mike has been a great friend of mine for many years and he has developed strong relationships with Florida leaders like Anna Paulina Luna and Cory Mills,” he continued.

“I look forward to him joining them in DC — he will always put America First!” he added.

Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis endorsed Haridopolos on social media following his announcement as well.

“@MikeHaridopolos led the Florida Senate at a difficult time in Florida’s economy with @SenRickScott as Governor,” he said. “Mike helped to get Florida back on its feet and we have been thriving ever since. Im proud to support my friend Mike Haridopolos for United States Congress.”

State Rep. Randy Fine, R-Palm Bay, was also proud to throw his support behind Haridopolos.

“Mike Haridopolos is an extraordinary leader with an incredible legislative mind. I am so excited to be first to endorse a fellow conservative to be my Congressman. No one could serve our community better,” he said.

Posey has represented the region of district eight in D.C. since 2009. He was endorsed for reelection by former President Donald Trump in March.

The district covers Brevard, Indian River and part of Orange County.

Haridopolos served as president of the Senate from 2010 to 2012.