Diaz-Balart's primary opponent drops out, endorses him

Dean Santoro, who told the Herald he was so moved by Ron Paul's quest for the presidency that he decided to run for Congress himself, has dropped out of the race and thrown his support behind his onetime target, Rep. Lincoln Diaz-Balart.

The Miami Republican, who instead plans to run for the state Senate seat now held by Gwen Margolis, said in a press release that he was announcing his "wholehearted support and endorsement" of Diaz-Balart.

"Although the congressman and I do not agree on every single issue, I have come to appreciate his profound commitment to public service and the respect and integrity with which he serves his constituents," Santora said.

House Democratic Leader Rep. Dan Gelber has already filed to succeed Margolis, who last summer announced her retirement and endorsed Gelber.

Comments

[hoopdreamz]

Rep. Gelber appears to be the most competent, ethical Representative Dade has in the House. He carries the unique reputation of being as bright as he is compassionate about the citizens he represents.

Dade County often fails to produce those two assets in a single individual.

He certainly outshines other contenders for the Senate, although I'd prefer to see him in the U.S. House at some point.

[Miami Lakes Dem]

The community seems to be rallying behind Lincoln. It seems no one wants a crook representing them in Congress. Makes sense. 3 Democrats in this Cuban-American home. Not one vote for Martinez. We don't love Lincoln, but elections are about choices, and in this case, the choice is clear.

I agree on the opinion of Mr. Gelber. He is certainly under-appreciated by this community. I applaud Mr. Santoro's decision and look forward to a real exchange of ideas and comparison of principles between Mr. Diaz-Balart and Mr. Martinez...if Mr. Martinez ever decides to enter into that type of exchange.

[Lisa Louise]

The game of musical chairs in the Florida legislature is a shameful travesty on the people of Dade. Now that Dan Gelber is term limited out of the house, he wants to go to the senate?? What has he done exept try to raise taxes and increase spending?? Nice way to end around term limits Gelber... we need change, not the same old 'connected' politicians. I'm looking forward to hearing some of Santoro's ideas.

[Carl Guerin]

Does Santoro endorses Diaz-Balart's integerity on voting for "Police State Agendas?!"