Wengay Newton wins Democratic primary for Florida House District 70

With 62 percent of the vote, Wengay Newton won the Democratic primary Tuesday in the Florida House District 70 race against Dan Fiorini and Christopher “C.J.” Czaia.

“I’m just overwhelmed by the love and support,” Newton said from his home Tuesday night. “It’s a total enlightenment to me that people saw fit for me to continue to serve, so my heart is overjoyed. I look forward to serving everyone in the district, not just St. Pete as it was claimed by my opponents during the campaign, and addressing all of the important issues for everyone in this district.”

Strong support from north of the Sunshine Skyway saw Newton overcome a lack of support in Manatee County, where Czaia’s “hometown guy” campaign did well, receiving 44.1 percent of the vote.

Turnout for the Democrats in Manatee County was light, however, with 2,034 voters casting a ballot. Dan Fiorini garnered 24.65 percent of the vote in Manatee County.

Overall in the district, Newton received 8,418 votes to Fiorni’s 2,875 and Czaia’s 2,367.

Fiorini could not be reached for comment on Tuesday, and Czaia did not return a request for comment.

“I wish them well into the future,” Newton said of his opponents. “It’s a noble thing to run for office.”

The winner will advance to the November general election to face unopposed Republican Cori Fournier.

This story was originally published August 30, 2016 at 8:28 PM with the headline "Wengay Newton wins Democratic primary for Florida House District 70."