Daisy Baez Starts With Strong Money Haul Against Erik Fresen

Democratic candidate Daisy Baez had an impressive fundraising haul in the third quarter as she launched her campaign to challenge Rep. Erik Fresen, R-Miami, for his seat which represents parts of Miami-Dade.

Baez, a businesswoman and Army veteran, is best known for her work in the health care industry and she has served as the executive director of the Dominican Health Care Association of Florida. Shes also been active with the Democratic Party, serving as president of Miami-Dades Democratic Hispanic Caucus, serving on the county Democratic Executive Committee and being a delegate to last years Democratic National Convention in Charlotte.

In the third quarter, Baez raised almost $50,500 and spent less than $6,050. During the same period, Fresen raised $8,150 and spent more than $15,300. So far in the campaign, Fresen has brought in $50,900 and spent almost $36,000. Amory Bodin, who is running against Fresen in the Repubican primary, continues to file waivers with the state Division of Elections.

Republicans outnumber Democrats in this district by 5 percent but Fresen clearly should expect a fight next year.