GOP Primary Exit Shakes Florida AG Race as Republican Backs Democrat
A Port Charlotte Republican who dropped his own AG bid last week refused to back GOP incumbent James Uthmeier — and crossed party lines to endorse a Democrat instead.
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA — A Port Charlotte Republican attorney who exited the race for Florida attorney general last week endorsed Democrat José Javier Rodríguez over Republican incumbent James Uthmeier for the November election.
Steven Leskovich, who had been competing in the Republican primary against Uthmeier, withdrew from the race last week, clearing the path for Uthmeier to become the GOP nominee. Instead of supporting his fellow Republican, Leskovich announced his backing for Rodríguez in a statement released by the Rodríguez campaign.
Leskovich Cites Rule of Law in Cross-Party Endorsement
“As a life-long Republican and former candidate for Florida Attorney General, I can only support a candidate that truly understands the rule of law, law and order, separation of powers, how to protect all Floridians, and has actual courtroom experience,” Leskovich said in the statement.
“There is only one candidate that meets these requirements,” the statement continues. “As a result, I am endorsing José Javier Rodriguez for Florida Attorney General.”
Leskovich’s departure from the Republican primary leaves Uthmeier, who was appointed to the attorney general position last year, as the presumptive GOP nominee for the fall race.
Uthmeier’s Gun Rights Stance at Center of Controversy
According to the Florida Phoenix, Uthmeier’s strong support for Second Amendment rights has earned him endorsements and praise from gun rights advocates since his appointment. That same stance, however, has drawn criticism from others, including Leskovich, who chose to back a Democrat rather than support the Republican nominee.
Uthmeier’s positioning on gun rights has become a defining issue in the attorney general’s race, highlighting contrasts between the incumbent and his Democratic challenger.
Rodríguez Aims to Break Nearly Three-Decade Democratic Drought
Rodríguez, a former Miami Democratic state senator who later served as assistant Labor secretary under President Joe Biden, is seeking to become the first Democrat elected Florida attorney general since Bob Butterworth won his fourth term in 1998.
Rodríguez welcomed Leskovich’s endorsement in a statement to the Phoenix. “Steve has dedicated his career to the law and to public service and I appreciate his confidence in our campaign,” Rodríguez said. “People of principle, regardless of party, agree that Floridians need an Attorney General tied to the Constitution, guided by ethics and committed to serving all Floridians. That’s the kind of leadership I will bring as” attorney general, he said.
Rodríguez said he was “honored” to have Leskovich’s support as the race heads toward November, according to the Florida Phoenix.
