The Hypocrisy of the Florida Young Democrats

I was disappointed to learn this week that the Young Democrats endorsed my Democratic opponent without even giving me an opportunity to compete for the endorsement. As a Democrat who has lived in the district most of life, and who has been willing to stand up to the mainland local Democratic party and fight for my community, I find this to be incredibly insulting.

This organization, which is based on helping young Democrats get elected to public office, and who favored Bernie Sanders for President, refused even to allow me to compete for the endorsement. These are the same supposed leaders that cried foul when the national party purportedly tilted the scales of democracy in order to favor a particular candidate. It seems the Young Democrats are more concerned with obtaining power and influence, instead practicing what they preach.

In addition, within the National by-°©‐laws and charter it states “ [i]t shall be the policy of the Young Democrats of America National . . . not to provide official endorsements to any candidate in a contested primary election. Unit and local organizations are not bound by this policy, but are urged to carefully consider the possible organizational risks of such an endorsement.” The Florida Young Democrats charter and by-°©‐laws create a procedure for contested primaries, which requires a 2/3 majority by the executive committee, which is intended to encourage a free democratic process. This process may have fallen on deaf ears it seems.

In a comparison of both my Democratic and Republican opponents, I am the only candidate that: (1) is a licensed and practicing attorney, which works in a small business; (2) has an Economics degree from Florida State University; (3) has worked in the finance sector; (4) is a product of the district; and (5) has provided a platform concerning our environmental issues, lack of renewable energy options and growth, rising homeowners insurance costs, and lack of affordable housing issues.

At the very lease I ask an opportunity to compete for an endorsement. I am not delusional in the sense that I know most endorsement are made based on behind the scenes factors, but almost all major politically involved organizations at least give one a chance to present why they should receive their endorsement. I challenge my fellow young Democrats to practice inclusivity, open and true competition, and avoid fearfulness like the plague. If we do not change the direction of our political system for the better, then the cycle of hypocrisy and our failure to band together to help our community will continue.

Concerned Citizen

Kevin Diaz, Candidate for State Representative, District 120

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