Melton Little lands Jack May’s endorsement in open HD 71 race

Republican Melton Little is continuing to consolidate support in the open House District 71 race, picking up an endorsement from prominent Manatee County conservative leader Jack May.

Little’s campaign announced that May — President of the Manatee County Patriots Club, TEA Party Manatee Inc., and Victims of Communism Florida — is backing his bid to succeed term-limited Bradenton Republican state Rep. Will Robinson.

May said Little is a reliable conservative aligned with grassroots priorities.

“Melton Little is exactly the kind of leader Florida needs in the House of Representatives,” May said in a statement. “He understands the values of our constitution, believes in protecting our freedoms, and is committed to standing up for hardworking families. I am proud to support Melton because I know he will fight for conservative principles and put the people of Florida first.”

The endorsement adds to growing institutional and political support for Little, who has already secured endorsement from U.S. Rep. Greg Steube, former Manatee County Sheriff Charlie Wells, and Donna Hayes, a longtime Republican organizer in Manatee County who previously served as Chair of former President Donald Trump’s local campaigns in 2016, 2020 and 2024.

Milton faces a competitive Republican Primary for HD 71 against Kristen Truong and Jordan Varnadore. The winner of that race as of now would face Democrat Marie Masferrer in the General Election.

Little has also emerged as the early fundraising leader in the race. Little outraised his Republican opponents combined during the final quarter of 2025 and entered the 2026 election cycle with a significant cash advantage. Overall, Little has raised nearly $188,000 via his campaign account and more than $30,000 through his political committee.

Truong’s campaign has raised nearly $41,000 and another $67,000 through the Sun Coast Conservative Alliance PC. Varnadore’s campaign has raised nearly $32,000, plus another $3,000 through the Protecting Manatee Values PC. Masferrer’s campaign has raised just over $2,100.

A native of Manatee County, Little grew up in Bayshore Gardens, attended Bayshore High School and established his law practice in Palmetto nearly four decades ago. His community service has earned him numerous accolades, including the highest honors from both the Manatee County Boys & Girls Club and the Manatee County Bar Association. 

Little aims to bring experience as a conservative small-business owner and proven community advocate to Tallahassee. He is running on a platform focused on conservative economic principles, small-business experience and community involvement, and is emphasizing local grassroots support. About 93% of his 220 contributors live within the district and Manatee County.