James Martin notches endorsement from Veterans for Responsible Leadership

Democratic veteran James Martin’s bid to unseat Republican U.S. Rep. Brian Mast just notched an endorsement from a progressive, veteran-run super PAC that promotes principled, civility-focused candidates.

Veterans for Responsible Leadership said in a statement that it is backing Martin because he’s a “proven leader who gets things done.”

“James’s exemplary service in the U.S. Coast Guard brings the tested leadership and expertise our country desperately needs,” said the organization’s Executive Director, Scott Peoples.

“He represents a new generation ready to deliver real results for the American people and our national security. James is a proven leader who gets things done.”

A fourth-generation Floridian, Martin entered the race for Florida’s 21st Congressional District in early October. He said he’s running because Mast and others in Washington have failed to deliver on pocketbook issues while turning a blind eye to attacks on democracy at home.

Within his first 24 hours of running, his campaign reported raising more than $150,000. Official fourth-quarter campaign finance reports from federal races are due Tuesday.

The Veterans for Responsible Leadership nod joins others from former Palm Beach Gardens Mayors Eric Jablin and David Levy.

Martin said in a statement that he’s “honored” to have the PAC’s support.

“Veterans know what it means to serve something bigger than ourselves and to get the mission done,” he said. “That’s exactly what Florida’s 21st District needs — a representative who will deliver real results instead of empty rhetoric. I’m ready to bring that commitment to the halls of Congress.”

Martin is set to face at least three others in a Democratic Primary: Pia Dandiya, Elizabeth Pandich and Bernard Taylor. Dandiya, who leads public sector partnerships for Apple, entered the race in early June and raised more than $783,000 through Sept. 30.

Pandich, who owns and operates an equestrian center, raised $71,000.

CD 21 includes all of Martin and St. Lucie counties and part of northern Palm Beach County. The district leans Republican — R+7, per the Cook Political Report — but has pockets of Democratic strength, particularly in suburban communities where education and health care are top concerns.

So far, no Republican has filed to challenge Mast. No-party candidate Robert Ott is also running.

The 2026 Primary is Aug. 18, followed by the General Election on Nov. 3.