Unions Backing David Pleat's Challenge to Marti Coley

The Florida Education Association announced it is backing Democratic candidate David Pleat's bid to knock off Rep. Marti Coley, R-Marianna.

It is a tremendous honor to receive the support and endorsement of the Florida Education Association and the teachers and education staff professionals within District 7 and in the state of Florida, said Pleat. I am forever indebted to our local public schools for the education they provided to my four older children."

Each of my children has gone on to successful college and post-college careers due in no small part to the effort, dedication and excellence of our public school teachers and the schools within District 7, said Pleat. That is why I was a vocal, ardent opponent of Senate Bill 6, the teacher-attack bill. Upon election, I will do everything within my power to provide full support to the public schools and defend the public school system against efforts to undermine and erode support of our public school system and its teachers.

Pleat, an attorney, is also being backed by the Florida AFL-CIO. As of the end of the first quarter, he has raised more than $23,000 -- far behind the almost $87,000 that Coley has raised.