Jimmie Smith Backs Mary Thomas to Challenge Gwen Graham

State Rep. Jimmie Smith, R-Inverness, who is running for the Florida Senate in 2016, announced on Friday he is backing Tallahassee attorney Mary Thomas for the Republican nomination to challenge U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham, D-Fla., next year. 

“Mary Thomas is the only true conservative in the race for the Second Congressional District,” Smith said in his endorsement. “She has experience working for Gov. Rick Scott and experience working to support our military service members, our veterans and our senior citizens. Like me, Mary is not part of the political establishment. She's not a political insider or a lobbyist. She is a mom, a Christian, and a first-generation American. Basically, she is the example of the American dream, coming from humble beginnings and working to build a better future. I know Mary will work hard for us and will represent the people of her district with distinction and with a conservative backbone that will not bend. We both represent a fresh, new generation of conservatives who will work tirelessly to change the way Washington works, for the people, not for the political insiders. I endorse Mary Thomas for Congress and encourage all like-minded conservatives to run with Mary for a brighter future for our country!" 

Thomas is running against Panama City surgeon Dr. Neal Dunn in the Republican primary. The district is expected to be altered as the state judiciary continues to handle the latest round of congressional redistricting.