Wilton Simpson backs Kelly Ann Walker in crowded HD 74 GOP Primary

Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson is throwing his support behind Republican Kelly Ann Walker in the House District 74 race to succeed outgoing Rep. James Buchanan.

The endorsement from Simpson — a former Senate President and one of Florida’s most prominent Republican elected officials — adds a powerful ally to Walker’s corner as the race for the GOP nomination intensifies. The seat has drawn five Republican candidates and establishment support is split, setting up a high-profile endorsement battle that could influence fundraising and momentum heading into the Aug. 18 Primary.

Simpson praised Walker as “a strong America First conservative who understands what makes Florida the leader of the nation.”

“She stands firmly for protecting our farmers and ranchers, supporting law enforcement, defending faith and family, and standing up for our veterans,” he said. “Kelly is disciplined, prepared, and committed to preserving the conservative principles that have made our state successful. I have full confidence she will represent House District 74 with strength and integrity, and I am proud to endorse her.”

Buchanan has held the HD 74 seat, which covers much of Sarasota County, since 2018. Now term-limited, Buchanan seeks election to Senate District 22 to replace term-limited Sarasota Sen. Joe Gruters.

Born in New York, Walker moved to Florida with her family in 2005 and was raised in Manatee County — where she grew up tending livestock, including chickens, ducks, cows and horses. Her campaign said those experiences instilled discipline and responsibility from an early age.

Walker attended Lakewood Ranch High School, where she participated in FFA, JROTC and varsity flag football. She later earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and an MBA from Stetson University.

Professionally, Walker has experience in Washington, working in the House for U.S. Reps. Greg Steube and Vern Buchanan, according to the campaign. She has also worked on Republican political campaigns.

Locally, Walker serves as Secretary of the Sarasota-Manatee Young Republicans and sits on the board of Central Florida Warriors Hockey, a nonprofit that supports disabled veterans.

Walker said she is grateful for Simpson’s support.

“I’m truly grateful for Commissioner Simpson’s endorsement and the confidence he has placed in our campaign,” Walker said. “His support reflects our common focus on growing Florida’s agricultural economy, standing up for rural communities, and defending the Free State of Florida. I’m excited to work alongside him in Florida’s Capitol to deliver conservative results for hardworking Florida families.”

Walker has reported about $258,000 in cash on hand between her campaign account and affiliated political committee, giving her an overall funding advantage over the field. Her campaign has raised just over $34,000 and added another $100,000 in loans. The Friends of Kelly Ann Walker PC has raised $124,000.

Buchanan endorsed Venice Mayor Nick Pachota, giving Pachota a notable endorsement of his own. Pachota has also secured endorsements from the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 57 and the Suncoast Professional Fire Fighters and Paramedics. Pachota has raised more than $189,000 so far, including more than $96,000 raised by his campaign and $93,000 raised by the Friends of Nick Pachota PAC.

Meanwhile, Jennifer Winkler, who has emphasized her small-business background, has reported raising more than $105,000 between her campaign and affiliated political committee. Her campaign has raised just under $46,000, and the Friends of Jennifer Winkler PC has raised just over $60,000.

Chris Felder and Les Nichols trail the leading candidates in fundraising. According to their most recent reports, Felder has raised nearly $3,900 and added $1,300 in loans, while Nichols has raised more than $6,900 and added $4,250 in loans. Meanwhile Democrat Nancy M. H. Simpson, who is unchallenged in the Democratic Primary, has raised $25 for the General Election.