Perry Thurston: Minority Party in House to be Working Families' Voice

Florida House Democratic Leader-designate Perry Thurston, D-Plantation, released the following statement on Wednesday regarding the primary results and the 2013 legislative session:

I am excited and honored to announce that seven outstanding Florida Democrats secured their place in the Florida House of Representatives with election victories last night. In addition to the Democratic primary winners, 10 other Democrats had previously been named as representatives-elect following their successful qualification for office without opposition.

While the November general election will further define the make-up of the Florida House and state Senate, it is already apparent that the Florida House Democratic Caucus will be a strong and united voice for Floridas middle class and working families.

Democrats winning contests Tuesday and not facing a November challenger included:

House District 46: Bruce Antone (prior service in the Florida House (2002 to 2010).

House District 48: Victor M. Torres Jr. (qualified for office in June without opposition).

House District 87: Dave Kerner.

House District 88: Bobby Powell.

House District 101: Shevrin D. Jones (qualified for office in June without opposition).

House District 113: David Richardson.

House District 61: Rep. Betty Reed, re-elected.

House District 100: Rep. Joseph Joe Gibbons, re-elected.

House District 109: Rep. Cynthia A. Stafford, re-elected.