{"id":11626,"date":"2023-10-14T20:42:02","date_gmt":"2023-10-14T19:42:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.agriculturelore.com\/?p=11626"},"modified":"2023-10-14T20:42:02","modified_gmt":"2023-10-14T19:42:02","slug":"who-is-running-for-florida-agriculture-commissioner","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.agriculturelore.com\/who-is-running-for-florida-agriculture-commissioner\/","title":{"rendered":"Who Is Running For Florida Agriculture Commissioner"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Floridians have until October 5th to decide who will be their next Agriculture Commissioner. It’s important to understand each candidate’s qualifications and platform in order to make a choice. Currently, three candidates—Nikki Fried, Matt Caldwell, and Baxter Troutman—are running for the office.<\/p>\n

Nikki Fried is the only Democratic candidate in the race. She is the CEO of a cannabis advocacy business and a former lobbyist for the Florida Medical Association. Fried is running on a platform of expanding access to high-quality agricultural products, supporting Florida’s farmers and ethical agricultural practices, and developing new and innovative agricultural products. Fried has also prioritized the development of a sustainable food system, which she believes will help improve Florida’s economy, environment, health, and food security.<\/p>\n

Matt Caldwell is the only Republican candidate in the race. He currently serves as a State Representative for North Florida and has had a long career in the agriculture industry. Caldwell is focused on creating jobs and investments in the agriculture sector, promoting best practices for environmental stewardship, and protecting the rights of land and water users. He also wants to increase agricultural exports and create opportunities to diversify Florida’s agricultural portfolio.<\/p>\n

Baxter Troutman is the only Independent candidate in the race. He is a third-generation citrus grower, businessman, and Florida native. Troutman has prioritized creating new markets for Florida farmers, protecting Florida’s water resources, and supporting research and development in the agricultural sector. Troutman has also been an advocate for farming education, which he believes is essential to ensure the future of Florida’s agricultural industry.<\/p>\n

Nikki Fried’s Platform<\/h2>\n