WASHINGTON—Today, People For the American Way’s Next Up Victory Fund announced its endorsement of Andrew Gillum for Governor of Florida. The Next Up Victory Fund supports young progressive candidates forty and under running for state and local office across the country.

Norman Lear, People For the American Way founder:

“I’ve met a lot of elected leaders in my 95 years, but I’ve met very few who had the wisdom, the courage and the vision of Andrew Gillum. Andrew’s tenacity and his passion for expanding opportunity for all people make me confident that our country’s best days are ahead of us. He will be an extraordinary governor for Florida.”

Michael Keegan, People For the American Way president:

“PFAW’s Next Up Victory Fund is proud to endorse Andrew Gillum for Florida Governor. Andrew is a champion for working families and has a proven track record of fighting for the rights of all people no matter where they come from or who they love. After Donald Trump’s victory, it is more important than ever to elect leaders who will fight against his divisive policies. Andrew has already demonstrated his willingness to stand up to President Trump in order to protect immigrant communities. I’ve known and worked with Andrew for years and had the chance to see his values and his hard work up close. His commitment to creating good-paying jobs for all Floridians, protecting and expanding access to health care, and investing in social service programs will move Florida forward.”

Lizet Ocampo, People For the American Way political director:

“In order to promote progressive leadership across the country, we need young leaders who can work statewide and put in place policies that reflect our shared American values. Andrew Gillum embodies that goal. He is both the youngest candidate in the race and the one with the most experience. Throughout his career, Andrew has dedicated himself to fighting for working families and creating economic opportunities for all. Andrew has the progressive vision to transform Florida into a state that works for everyone and Next Up is proud to endorse him for governor.”

Prior to his campaign for governor, Gillum was the youngest person elected to the Tallahassee City Commission and later served as mayor. Under his leadership, he advocated for commonsense gun reform laws, advanced work training programs for underrepresented communities, and increased investments in community policing to make Tallahassee a safer place. His agenda includes revitalizing public education, creating good-paying jobs, and investing in reliable infrastructure, in addition to strong stands on behalf of equal rights for women, people of color, and the LGBTQ community.

More information about the Next Up Victory Fund and its endorsed candidates can be found here.

People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and defend constitutional values including free expression, religious liberty, equal justice under the law, and the right to meaningfully participate in our democracy.

###