Erin Huntley gets high-profile backing from Central Florida lawman in HD 45 race

Republican Erin Huntley has picked up a key endorsement in her bid for a Central Florida House seat.

Osceola County Sheriff Christopher Blackmon is backing Huntley in the House District 45 race.

“House District 45 can trust Erin Huntley to be a steadfast ally in protecting our communities,” Blackmon said. “Erin understands that public safety is the foundation of freedom and prosperity, and she’ll be a reliable partner to law enforcement as we work together to keep our families safe. I’m proud to endorse her for state Representative.”

Huntley is seeking the seat held by Gotha Democratic Rep. Leonard Spencer.

“I’m honored to receive Sheriff Christopher Blackmon’s endorsement and proud to stand with the courageous men and women who protect our families every day in both Orange and Osceola counties,” Huntley said.

Spencer is seeking re-election to the district that sprawls across Orange and Osceola counties. He has already raised more than $90,000 to maintain the seat. He’s the only Democrat to declare in the race so far.

Huntley has already garnered more than $171,000 in campaign contributions. She has been entrenched in GOP politics, serving as the Orange County GOP Chair. Gov. Ron DeSantis also appointed her to the Florida Virtual School Board of Trustees.

Huntley has also been endorsed by several high-profile political players such as U.S. Rep. Dan Webster and Attorney General James Uthmeier.

Huntley is facing off against a fellow Republican for the HD 45 seat. Raleigh “Lee” Steinhauer is challenging her in the GOP Primary, set for Aug. 18. Steinhauer has raised about $60,000 in his campaign war chest thus far.

The General Election will take place Nov. 3.