Julian Castro Endorses Andrew Gillum for Governor

Former U.S. Housing and Urban Development Sec. Julian Castro, considered by many Democrats to be one of their party’s rising stars, announced on Monday that he was backing Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum to be Florida’s next governor. 

"Our nation is at its best when it matches hard work with real opportunity,” Castro said. “That's the essence of the American Dream. I'm proud to support Andrew Gillum for governor because Andrew, the son of a construction worker and a bus driver, has worked hard to achieve his own dreams--and he's worked just as hard to ensure that Floridians from every walk of life can achieve theirs.

"When Andrew is governor, he will fight so that every child in Florida has the opportunity to grow and succeed in the Sunshine State,” Castro added. “He is the candidate Democrats can best trust to stand with the courage of conviction, even when it's not politically convenient." 

“It is an honor to have Secretary Julian Castro’s endorsement in our campaign for governor,” Gillum said. “As HUD secretary and San Antonio’s mayor, Julian has put children’s health, well-being and opportunity at the forefront of his work. He has worked to ensure all of our children - no matter if they grew up in a big city or rural town - have every chance to succeed. It is an honor to have his endorsement as we continue sharing our vision for a Florida that works for everyone.” 

Gillum, who will host a fundraiser with Castro in South Florida at the start of June, currently faces former U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham and businessman Chris King in the Democratic primary. Other possible candidates include attorney John Morgan and Miami Beach Mayor Philip Levine.