TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Democratic Chief Financial Officer candidate Annette Taddeo has secured endorsements from two of Florida’s most prominent local government leaders, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, as the race for one of Florida’s Cabinet offices continues to take shape.
The endorsements come one day after the Florida Chamber of Commerce endorsed Republican Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia for a full term, underscoring the growing contrast between the two parties as Florida’s 2026 campaign season accelerates.
Demings said Taddeo would serve as an independent watchdog for Florida taxpayers.
“Floridians deserve a Chief Financial Officer who will be an independent watchdog for taxpayers and consumers, not someone who simply goes along with the status quo,” Demings said.
He criticized rising homeowners insurance costs and said Tallahassee has failed to provide sufficient oversight and accountability.
Levine Cava praised Taddeo’s record of independence and public service.
“I’ve known Annette Taddeo for many years, and I’ve always admired her willingness to stand up for what’s right, even when it’s difficult,” Levine Cava said.
She added that Florida needs a Chief Financial Officer who will protect taxpayer dollars and provide independent oversight.
Growing Democratic coalition
The endorsements add to an expanding list of Democratic supporters behind Taddeo, including incoming Senate Democratic Leader Tracie Davis, former Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink, former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Donna Shalala, former U.S. Representatives Al Lawson and Kendrick Meek, and several current Democratic legislators.
Taddeo has also received endorsements from labor unions and advocacy organizations, including SEIU Florida, Ruth’s List Florida, SAVE Action PAC, and several education and civil rights organizations.
Taddeo welcomed the endorsements.
“They have earned the trust of millions of Floridians by leading with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the communities they serve,” she said.
CFO race taking shape
The Democratic primary pits Taddeo against attorney and former IRS investigator Earle Ford.
On the Republican side, incumbent Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia is seeking a full term after being appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2025. He faces public adjuster and Air Force veteran Frank Collige in the Republican primary.
The winners of the Aug. 18 primaries will advance to the Nov. 3 general election.
With endorsements arriving from both statewide business organizations and major Democratic elected officials this week, the race for Florida Chief Financial Officer is beginning to emerge as one of the state’s most closely watched Cabinet contests.
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