Democratic Primary Field Takes Shape for Florida’s 24th Congressional District Following Rep. Wilson’s Retirement

NewsWK — Following the retirement announcement of eight-term Democratic U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson, seven candidates have entered the primary race to represent Florida’s 24th Congressional District, according to a report first published by Florida Phoenix.

The district, which encompasses parts of northern Miami-Dade and southern Broward counties, remains one of the few reliably Democratic strongholds in the state. While Republicans currently hold 20 of Florida‘s 28 congressional seats, CD 24 retained its traditional boundaries during recent state redistricting efforts.

The seven Democratic contenders bring varying backgrounds in local government, legal practice, and community activism to the primary contest:

• Shevrin Jones: A current state senator and former chair of the Miami-Dade Democratic Party, Jones has served in the state legislature since 2012. Campaign finance filings show Jones has raised approximately $148,000, with $57,000 in cash remaining on hand.
• Oliver Gilbert III: The chairman of the Miami-Dade County Commission and former mayor of Miami Gardens has earned Wilson’s endorsement. Gilbert has raised $524,000 with $224,000 on hand. In a statement to Florida Phoenix, Gilbert noted, “Congresswoman Wilson represented this district with distinction for nearly fifteen years. I’m not running to be her. I’m running to continue the work.”
• Kendrick Meek Jr.: An attorney who served in the Office of Management and Budget during the Biden administration, Meek is seeking to follow his father and grandmother, both former members of Congress. His campaign reports $487,000 raised and $419,000 in cash reserves.
• Jean Monestime: A former Miami-Dade Commission chair and government relations consultant, Monestime is advocating for local economic development and immigration reform. He has accumulated $57,000 in contributions, retaining $30,000.
• Rudolph Moise: A physician and founding president of the Comprehensive Health Center, Moise has mounted previous primary challenges in the district. He leads overall campaign receipts with $632,000 raised, holding $76,000 in cash after expenditure.
• Marshall Davis Sr.: Managing director of the African Heritage Cultural Arts Center and community minister, Davis stated to Florida Phoenix that voters are tired of “backroom deals for personal gain” and special interest influence. His campaign has reported $13,000 in total receipts.
• Roderick Vereen: A former assistant federal public defender and state prosecutor, Vereen is running on a platform focused on economic opportunity and voting access. His campaign reports $15,000 raised with $65,000 cash on hand.

The winner of the Democratic primary will represent the South Florida district in Washington, balancing local interests alongside Florida’s conservative legislative delegation.