Beruff files as first Republican in Senate race

Carlos Beruff officially filed Wednesday as the first Republican candidate for the Senate race.

Beruff heads Bradenton-based Medallion Home, and is a member of numerous boards and commissions.

He said he wants to bring business experience and public service back to Washington.

“I feel stronger than ever about our campaign knowing the people of Florida are fed up with the status quo and are tired of sending career politicians to represent them,” he said in a statement.

The Republican primary is Aug. 30.

Other Republicans who have said they intend to run for the seat now held by Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., are Reps. Ron DeSantis and David Jolly; Lt. Gov. Carlos Lopez-Cantera; and businessman Todd Wilcox. The qualifying deadline for the primary is June 24.

Rubio is not running for re-election.

Herald staff report

This story was originally published June 8, 2016 at 1:45 PM with the headline "Beruff files as first Republican in Senate race."