Two South Florida state representatives have launched bids to succeed state House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell, D-Tampa, to lead the Democratic caucus after the 2026 state elections.
State Rep. Kelly Skidmore, D-Boca Raton, showcased some early support this week. Skidmore served as a legislative aide in both chambers of the Florida Legislature before being elected to the Florida House in 2006. She ran for the state Senate in 2010 but lost to Republican Ellyn Bogdanoff before returning to the House in 2020. Skidmore is currently part of the Democratic House leadership team, serving as policy chair.
“I am excited about the opportunities for the Democratic Caucus and know that we are strongest and most effective when we are united,” said Skidmore. “One thing that I have learned over the past 19 years in the legislature is that consistency is critical to ensuring success. The House Democratic Caucus knows that as leader I offer steady and committed leadership and will not abandon them for personal gain or political ambition.
“I am grateful and humbled by the overwhelming support from my colleagues in the House so far,” she continued.
State Reps. Kristen Arrington, D-Kissimmee, Kevin Chambliss, D-Homestead, Dan Daley, D-Coral Springs, and David Silvers, D-West Palm Beach, threw their support behind Skidmore on Tuesday.
“As Democrats in Tallahassee strive to emerge from the super minority, it is crucial that we have strong and experienced leaders like Representative Skidmore guiding us forward. Her ability to unite people, find common ground, and effectively communicate our values to the people of Florida will be instrumental in building bridges and the support necessary to enact positive change,” said Chambliss.
Skidmore does not have an open shot at the leadership post. The Florida Phoenix reported this week that state Rep. Christine Hunschofsky, D-Parkland, is also running to lead Democrats in the Florida House. Hunschofsky rose up in local politics, serving three years as a Parkland city commissioner, including as vice mayor, before being elected mayor and serving in that post for four years. In 2020, Hunschofsky was elected to the Florida House.
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