MIRAMAR, Fla. — Candidates running for the Democratic nomination in Florida’s 24th Congressional District gathered on Saturday for a candidate forum hosted by Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam. The event took place at City Hall’s Commission Chambers located at 2300 Civic Center Place, with Local 10 News Anchor Calvin Hughes serving as moderator. This primary election is significant as it seeks to replace U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson, who has represented the district for approximately 13 years.
Key Contenders in a Competitive Field
The field of candidates includes several individuals with deep roots in South Florida politics and public service. Oliver G. Gilbert III, a Miami-Dade commissioner and former mayor of Miami Gardens, received the endorsement of Rep. Wilson. Gilbert, 53, holds degrees from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University and the University of Miami.
Florida Sen. Shevrin “Shev” Jones also entered the race with strong local credentials. Born in Hollywood and raised in Miami Gardens, Jones served in the Florida House before moving to the State Senate. He brings advanced educational degrees from Florida A&M University and Florida Atlantic University to his campaign.
Other notable candidates include Kendrick Meek Jr., who is following a political legacy established by his father, former U.S. Rep. Kendrick B. Meek, and his late grandmother, Carrie Meek. Meek Jr. worked as a White House aide on healthcare policy under the Biden administration. Also running are Dr. Rudolph “Rudy” Moise, a retired Air Force Reserve Colonel and Haitian-American physician; Jean Monestime, a former Miami-Dade County commissioner; Roderick D. Vereen, a criminal defense attorney; and Marshal L. Davis Sr., director of the African Heritage Cultural Arts Center.
Election Timeline and Voting Details
As candidates present their platforms to voters in Miramar and across the district, specific deadlines for participation are approaching. The deadline for mail-in ballot requests was set for August 6. Early voting began on August 8, providing residents with multiple opportunities to cast their ballots before the main election day.
The Democratic primary is scheduled for Tuesday, August 18. This preliminary vote will determine which candidate advances to face opponents in the general election on November 3. The forum provided a platform for these seven individuals to outline their qualifications and visions for representing Florida’s 24th Congressional District as they seek to succeed one of its longest-serving members.
