Jeb Bush Backs Janet Adkins' Bid for a Third Term

On Monday, former Gov. Jeb Bush announced that he was backing Rep. Janet Adkins, R-Fernandina Beach, in her bid for a third term in the Florida House of Representatives.

Adkins, who currently represents all of Baker, Nassau and Union counties and parts of Bradford, Clay and Duval counties, has focused on education issues during her time in the House, rising to serve as vice chairwoman of the Education Committee and the Pre-K-12 Appropriations Subcommittee. Bush noted Adkins work on education in his endorsement on Monday.

"I have known Janet for years, first as a school board member and now a state representative who has made improving education for Florida's students a priority," said Bush in a statement. "Janet understands that we need an education system that is student centered, offers parents real choices and ensures student skills match the expectations of employers and colleges. I know that Janet has the integrity and the bold ideas to create a stronger Florida for everyone."

"I am pleased and honored to have the support of a true national leader in education reform, Adkins said. It is through school choice and greater focus on students that we will realize the promise of a quality education. I am committed to introducing legislation to help align our state budget and the skills of students with the needs of employers."

Adkins faces attorney Cord Byrd in the Republican primary on Aug. 14.