The Hispanic Vote backs Mike Friend for HD 102

A nonpartisan South Florida PAC focused on educating and mobilizing Hispanic voters in local elections is getting behind Democrat Mike Friend’s bid for House District 102.

The Hispanic Vote Broward County just endorsed Friend, adding more organizational backing to a growing coalition of elected officials, professional associations and advocacy groups supporting his campaign.

“Michael Friend has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to public service and a steadfast dedication to advancing the interests of our community with integrity, professionalism, and purpose. His vision for a more inclusive and prosperous future closely aligns with our organization’s mission to empower and advocate for the Hispanic community through informed, engaged, and active civic participation,” the group’s Board of Directors said in a July 23 letter to Friend.

“We are confident that Michael Friend possesses the leadership, experience, and character necessary to effect meaningful and positive changes while addressing the diverse needs and priorities of the community he seeks to serve. The Hispanic Vote proudly offers its full endorsement of Mr. Michael Friend and encourages all voters to support his candidacy in the upcoming election.”

Friend, a Davie dentist and small business owner, called the endorsement “an incredible honor,” citing his family’s ties to the Hispanic community.

“Growing up in Broward County, I was surrounded by Spanish-speaking neighbors whose culture, traditions, generosity, and sense of community helped shape the person I am today,” he said. “They became some of my closest friends, trusted neighbors, community partners, and today many are my patients.”

Friend then detailed his family’s immigrant roots.

“They remained Jewish in Poland after World War II, enduring continued persecution until they were finally able to leave in 1967 in search of the freedom and opportunity America represents,” he said. “Like so many families who escaped oppression, they ultimately found a home here in Broward County. Many of those same stories have been shared with me by my Hispanic neighbors and patients — stories of sacrifice, resilience, and building a better life for the next generation.”

The Hispanic Vote endorsement adds to the backing Friend has received from the Broward County Medical Association, Florida Justice Reform Institute, a passel of trade organizations and a slew of elected officials, including state Reps. Robin Bartleman, Dan Daley, Mitch Rosenwald and Marie Woodson; Broward Property Appraiser Marty Kiar; Broward Commissioners Steve Geller and Nan Rich; Broward School Board Members Debra Hixon and Rebecca Thompson; Pembroke Pines Mayor Angelo Castillo; Davie Mayor Judy Paul; Cooper City Mayor Greg Ross; Sunrise Mayor Michael Ryan; Sunrise Deputy Mayor Neil Kerch; Sunrise Assistant Deputy Mayor Jacqueline Guzman; Plantation Council member Erik Anderson; Southwest Ranches Council member David Kuczenski; Davie Council member Marlon Luis; Coconut Creek Commissioner Josh Rydell; Fort Lauderdale Commissioner Ben Sorensen; Pembroke Pines Commissioners Michael Hernandez, Maria Rodriguez and Jay Schwartz; and Cooper City Commissioner Ryan Shrouder.

Friend is one of two Democrats running to replace term-limited state Rep. Mike Gottlieb, who named Friend as his preferred successor. Democratic activist and civic engagement organizer Jayden D’Onofrio is his Primary foe.

On the Republican side, lawyer Mery Lopez-Palma — whom Gottlieb defeated in 2024 — faces Cooper City Commissioner Jason Paul Smith.

HD 102 covers an inland portion of Broward that includes all or parts of Davie, Plantation, and Sunrise and leans Democratic.

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