Melton Little Earns Broad Support for Florida House District 71

Melton Little’s campaign for Florida House District 71 has earned support from public officials, public-safety leaders, conservative advocates, business owners, medical professionals, veterans, faith leaders and respected members of the Manatee County community.

Together, these endorsements reflect confidence in Melton’s experience, judgment and commitment to representing the community he has served for decades.

Public Officials and Public-Safety Leaders

• Congressman Greg Steube — The District 17 congressman has known Melton for more than 20 years and endorsed him as a trusted conservative voice for Manatee County.

• Charles “Charlie” Wells — The former Manatee County sheriff brings decades of law-enforcement leadership and firsthand knowledge of the county’s public-safety needs.

• W. Brad Steube — Another former Manatee County sheriff supporting Melton’s campaign and commitment to safe communities.

• Major Ron Getman — A retired Florida Highway Patrol major and former Manatee County commissioner with experience in both public safety and local government.

• Gene Gallo — A former Bradenton fire chief and City Council member whose career reflects a lifetime of service to the community.

  
  

The support of these leaders speaks to Melton’s commitment to law enforcement, first responders and responsible government.

Conservative and Community Leaders

Melton has also earned the backing of conservative and community leaders who have worked to protect constitutional freedoms and strengthen Manatee County:

• Donna Hayes — Former chair of the Manatee County Republican Party and Manatee County Trump presidential campaign chair.

• Kevin Wright — Regional Director of the Florida Liberty Caucus.

• Jack May — President of Manatee Patriots, Tea Party Manatee Inc. and Victims of Communism Florida.

• Marnie Matarese — A dedicated local supporter of Melton and his campaign.

  
  

These endorsements reflect confidence in Melton’s commitment to limited government, fiscal responsibility, individual liberty and conservative leadership.

Business and Professional Leaders

Local business owners and professionals understand how government decisions affect jobs, opportunity and the cost of doing business. Melton’s supporters from the business community include:

• John Rice — Rice’s Appliance

• George Najmy — Allstate Insurance

• Mike LaValliere — Former Pittsburgh Pirates catcher and Manatee Little League leader

• Matt Bowes — Owner of Bowes Imaging Center

• Ken Christy — Ken Christy Insurance

• Jim Gentile — Certified public accountant

  
  

Their support reinforces Melton’s commitment to reducing unnecessary red tape, protecting local businesses and encouraging responsible economic growth.

Health Care, Faith, Veterans and Youth Leadership

Melton’s coalition also includes individuals who have spent their careers caring for patients, serving their country, guiding local families and creating opportunities for young people:

• H.B. White — Emergency-room physician

• John Deal — Navy veteran and physician assistant

• Rev. Dennis Kezar — Christ Episcopal Church

• Carl Weeks — Retired Boys & Girls Club leader

  
  

These community voices recognize the importance of experienced representation that respects faith, supports veterans, values health care professionals and protects opportunities for the next generation.

Organizational Endorsements

Melton has received endorsements and support from organizations representing conservative advocacy, health care, real estate and local grassroots leadership:

• Americans for Prosperity Action

• Manatee Patriots

• Florida Medical Association PAC

• Florida Realtors PAC

  
  

Americans for Prosperity Action cited Melton’s support for workforce education, educational opportunity, low taxes and long-term fiscal stability when announcing its endorsement.

Florida Realtors PAC’s endorsement reflects Melton’s understanding of private-property rights, homeownership and the importance of responsible policies affecting Florida communities. The Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee has also publicly recognized Melton among the Florida Realtors PAC-backed candidates.

Preferred-Candidate Designations and Professional Support

Melton has also been named a preferred candidate by organizations representing additional conservative and professional constituencies:

• Florida Chiropractic Association’s ChiroPAC — Preferred candidate

• America First Party of Florida — Preferred candidate for Florida House District 71

These designations are listed separately to accurately reflect the language used by each organization.

A Coalition Built on Experience and Trust

These supporters come from different professions and backgrounds, but they share a common confidence in Melton Little’s ability to represent House District 71.

They know his record. They know his commitment to Manatee County. And they trust him to bring experienced, conservative and community-focused leadership to Tallahassee.

Melton is honored to stand with the public servants, professionals, business owners and community leaders who are standing with him.