Democrat Wayne Richter files for open HD 85 contest

A Treasure Coast criminal defense lawyer is jumping into the race for the open House District 85 seat.

Wayne Richter has filed to run in HD 85, a seat currently held by term-limited Republican Rep. Toby Overdorf. The district covers portions of Martin and St. Lucie counties along the Treasure Coast.

Richter, a Democrat, is the founding partner of the Law Offices of R. Wayne Richter, P.A., a criminal defense firm. He brings more than 15 years of experience in criminal defense litigation. Richter is certified to practice in all Florida state courts and the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

In launching his campaign, Richter is framing his bid as an effort to restore “calm” to Tallahassee.

“Florida needs serious leadership, not partisan showmanship,” Richter said. “My intent is to revive common sense, reintroduce stability and reduce costs for the middle class.”

Richter said his priorities would include lowering the costs of energy, groceries and housing, “bringing property insurance rates to heel,” and expanding access to affordable health care. He is also calling for measures to strengthen public schools and vocational programs, cap out-of-state enrollment at Florida’s public colleges and universities, and enhance water quality protections in a region closely tied to the health of the Indian River Lagoon.

On growth management, Richter supports reinstating zoning authority for local governments, arguing that communities should have greater control over development decisions affecting infrastructure and quality of life. He is also promising to crack down on crime while supporting law enforcement and boosting community engagement on public safety issues.

A longtime member of the legal community, Richter currently serves as Treasurer of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He previously served as President of the Martin County Bar Association and as President of the Palm Beach County Bar Association’s North County Section.

Richter’s campaign biography highlights roots in public service and faith. He is the son of a Methodist minister and a mother who worked for the Florida Turnpike Administration. He and his wife, Katie, live in Palm City with their three children and are members of First United Methodist Church of Stuart.

Richter earned his undergraduate degree in political science from Florida Southern College and his law degree from South Texas College of Law.

So far, Richter is the only Democrat who has announced a run. Two Republicans, Anthony Bonna and Thomas Colter, have also filed.