Annette Taddeo lands endorsement of Central Florida Democrats

Several Central Florida Democrats are endorsing Annette Taddeo for Chief Financial Officer.

Taddeo announced she has the support of Sens. Kristen Arrington and Carlos Guillermo Smith, Rep. Anna Eskamani, and former Sens. Vic Torres and Linda Stewart, who are both running for Orange County office.

“I had the honor of serving alongside many of these leaders, and I know firsthand their dedication to finding solutions and putting their communities first,” Taddeo said.

“This race is about restoring trust in state government by making sure Floridians have a CFO who will ask tough questions, demand answers, and always put the public interest ahead of special interests. I’m proud to have their support as we work to build a more accountable, affordable, and transparent Florida.”

Taddeo is growing her Democratic coalition of support as she is fighting to become the first Democrat elected as Chief Financial Officer in 20 years.

Republican CFO Blaise Ingoglia currently holds the position. Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed Ingoglia to the job in 2025, so November is his first statewide test before voters.

“Florida needs a Chief Financial Officer who understands that every decision made in Tallahassee has a real impact on people’s lives,” said Arrington, of Kissimmee. “Annette Taddeo has spent her career fighting for stronger accountability, protecting taxpayers, and making sure government works for the people it serves.”

Smith, an Orlando Democrat, cited his time serving with Taddeo in the Legislature.

“I know she has never been afraid to challenge the powerful when Floridians are getting left behind. That’s exactly why I’m proud to support her,” he said.

Eskamani, who is running for Orlando Mayor, echoed her support.

“She knows that public office isn’t about protecting insiders, it’s about fighting against corruption for the people who are working hard, paying the bills, and expecting government to do its job,” Eskamani said. “She’ll bring integrity, accountability, and a relentless focus on affordability to the Chief Financial Officer’s office, and I’m proud to support her.”