A former Congressman who once represented Jacksonville is weighing in on a seat that includes some of his former district.
Al Lawson is backing Michael Kirwan, a Democrat trying to flip Florida’s 4th Congressional District. It’s the latest sign of momentum for the Jacksonville native and longtime securities lawyer who has served as Chair of the Jacksonville Ethics Commission and President of Scenic Jacksonville.
“Michael Kirwan is ready to do this job on day one,” said Lawson, who represented part of Jacksonville from 2016 until 2022’s redistricting.
“He understands the needs of this district, he knows how to fight for the people he represents, and he will work to make sure Florida’s 4th District has a strong voice in Washington. Just as importantly, I know Michael will work to bring resources and investment back to this district. That matters. The people of Northeast Florida deserve someone who will not just hold the office, but use it to deliver.”
Other Kirwan backers include the Jacksonville Association of Fire Fighters (JAFF), state Sen. Tracie Davis, former Senate Democratic Leader and current Florida House candidate Audrey Gibson, former state Sen. Tony Hill, Democratic City Councilman Jimmy Peluso, Duval School Board members Warren Jones and Darryl Willie, and former City Councilmen Howard Dale and Jim Love.
Kirwan said Lawson “has spent his career fighting for North Florida and making sure our communities are seen, heard, and supported.”
“I’m honored to have his endorsement and grateful for his confidence in me. I’m running for Congress because this district deserves someone who will be ready to fight from day one — for working families, for opportunity, and for the federal resources our communities need to grow and thrive,” Kirwan said.
The district, which includes Nassau County, Clay County and some of Duval County, is 41% Republican and 34% Democrat. Republican U.S. Rep. Aaron Bean of Fernandina Beach is running for his third term.
