Jose Oliva Wins GOP Primary for Miami-Dade House Seat

Jose Oliva prevailed in a special election primary held on Tuesday, beating two fellow Republicans in the contest to represent parts of Miami-Dade County in the Florida House. Oliva will be a heavy favorite to beat write-in candidate Antonio Moreno in the June 28 special general election.

With Esteban Bovo having stepped down to successfully run for a Miami-Dade County Commission seat, Oliva, the CEO of the Oliva Cigar Company, took 42 percent of the vote while Frank Lago, best known for serving as chief of staff to Sweetwater Mayor Manny Maro, placed second with 34.9 percent. Rafael Ralph Perez, a former aide to Marco Rubio during his time in the Florida House and as a deputy chief of staff under former Speaker Johnnie Byrd, who had run for another House seat back in 2008, placed third with 23 percent.

Oliva has called the district home since 1974, and has chosen to play up his conservatism. According to Olivas campaign team, their candidate will fight for lower taxes, small and accountable government, conservative family values and to make Florida a business-friendly state.