Republicans in Tallahassee have not had a voice to represent them in the state legislature in quite some time. But all that is about to change as we take a look at the next candidate in our Candidate Spotlight series: Jim Messer, running for the Florida State House of Representatives from District 9.

Jim Messer grew up in Tallahassee, graduating from Lincoln High School. From there he went on to attain an economics degree from Washington & Lee University in 1984. He then spent six years as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army before being honorably discharged as a Captain in 1990. He went on to get his law degree from Mercer University, graduating in 1993. Jim is married to his beautiful wife, Laurye, and they have three children. He practices law in the state of Florida, is a Florida Bar Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyer, and is a partner with the law firm of Fonvielle, Lewis, Foote, and Messer.

Jim believes we must bring our economic dollars and invest in Tallahassee through economic development. On his website, he states “More investment means opportunity and hope for all of us, from the most affluent to the least among us.” That is certainly correct. Jim recognizes that children are the key to our future; to foster their interests we need to help our teachers. Jim advocates for a properly funded education system to help our teachers and students have the resources needed for success. Many of us here are state employees. Jim is dedicated to helping us be more successful as well. Jim is a guy who will stand up for us here, and not the special interests at the Capitol.

You have an opportunity to help Jim’s campaign. Leon County State Committeewoman Cynthia Henderson is hosting a fundraiser for Jim. The event will be at the Edison Restaurant at 470 Suwannee Street in Tallahassee from 6pm to 7pm. This is right before the Leon County GOP Debate Watch Party at the same place. Please stop by and get to know a great man and help his campaign.