John Quiñones enters race against Congressman Darren Soto
Former Florida State Representative and Osceola County Chairman John Quiñones. Photo: Florida House Representatives
KISSIMMEE, Fla. (FNN) – John “Q” Quiñones, the first Puerto Rican Republican State Representative and Chairman of Osceola County Commission, is challenging Florida’s first Puerto Rican congressman, Darren Soto.
If there’s a wave of victories in 2024, it will be powered by Puerto Rican candidates in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties—if they can energize Puerto Rican voter turnout. Puerto Rican Democrats and Republicans could make more historic gains in Florida by winning more seats in the state House and state Senate. In fact, Puerto Ricans could have a political stronghold on the I-4 corridor.
And for Quiñones, this race is all about Puerto Rican representation.
“I am running for Congress because I believe that we need to restore common sense to Washington,” said Quiñones in his campaign press release. “I will fight for the values that matter to our families and our community, like lower taxes, a better education for our children, and safe and secure communities. I have a proven track record of fighting for the people of Florida, and I pledge to be a strong voice for Central Florida in Congress.
“I am confident that I can win this race and bring common sense back to Washington,” said Quiñones.
“As a proud Puerto Rican born American, I am asking for your support so that we can fix the broken economic policies of the Biden Administration and make a difference in the lives of hard-working Floridians and their families.”
Quiñones made history in 2002 as the first Puerto Rican Republican ever elected to the Florida Legislature. Florida’s 9th Congressional District has been listed as a top target for the National Republican Congressional Committee after Governor Ron DeSantis won the seat with a strong showing in 2022. The predominantly Hispanic district is based mainly in Osceola County, where Quiñones served as Chairman of the County Commission. Osceola County is the fastest growing county in the district. DeSantis and Rubio won Osceola County in 2022, showing that the right candidate can win the district in 2024.
Quiñones is the second Republican to enter the race, following Angel Luis Coba, who filed to run against Congressman Soto March 2, 2023.
The primary election happens August 20, 2024 and the general election happens November 5, 2024.