Wilton Simpson backs Sen. Rick Scott’s reelection bid, joins farmers coalition

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson endorsed Florida Republican Sen. Rick Scott Monday for reelection to the U.S. Senate on Nov. 5.

“I’m proud to have served alongside @ScottforFlorida and honored to endorse my friend because his commitment to economic prosperity, personal freedom and fiscal responsibility puts him in a league of his own as a once-in-a-generation kind of leader. #FarmersforRickScott,” Simpson said.

Last week, Scott’s campaign launched the “Farmers for Rick Scott Coalition.”

Scott will spend the next several weeks touring the state’s agriculture industry to meet with farmers, ranchers and growers, his campaign announced.

“I’m not going to back down to Democrats who want to play politics with Florida’s ag industry,” Scott said.

In response to Simpson’s endorsement announcement, Florida Democratic Party Chairwoman Nikki Fried said Simpson and Scott “refused to stand with Florida farmers to oppose the ratification” of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement and instead, “took a knee to Trump.”

The campaign highlighted the senator’s support for the Federal Disaster Responsibility Act and Block Grant Assistance Act, which would provide “every resource needed” to fuel and feed communities.

“Right now, this critical funding is being held up by the Biden Administration as they continue to play politics with critical aid for Florida’s citrus industry following recent hurricanes that hit the state,” the announcement said.

Scott’s main likely opponent for his U.S. Senate seat will be former Florida Democratic Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell.