Seven Democrats Compete in Primary to Replace Wilson in Florida’s 24th Congressional District

A competitive Democratic primary contest is underway to fill the seat held by U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson, who has served Florida’s 24th Congressional District for approximately 13 years. The district encompasses portions of northern Miami-Dade and southern Broward counties, where all seven candidates have identified affordability as a critical issue for constituents.

According to campaign finance disclosures through Wednesday, retired Air Force Col. Dr. Rudolph “Rudy” Moise leads the field with $631,000 in receipts. The 71-year-old physician and Haitian American, who operates a practice in North Miami and holds advanced degrees from the University of Miami, has proposed lowering Medicare eligibility to age 55, citing rising costs for groceries, gasoline, and healthcare.

Miami-Dade Commissioner Oliver G. Gilbert II, 53, trails with $524,000 raised and has secured the endorsement of Rep. Wilson as well as Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniela Levine Cava. A St. Pete Polls survey showed Gilbert commanding 27% support among Democrats. The former Miami Gardens mayor, who earned a law degree from the University of Miami, emphasizes healthcare access and affordable housing.

Kendrick Meek Jr., 29, has raised over $486,500 and highlights his Capitol Hill experience, including internships on House committees and work as a healthcare policy aide under the Biden administration. The University of Miami law graduate, whose father and grandmother both served in Congress, has earned the backing of former U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson and polls at 10% among Democrats.

Florida State Sen. Shevrin Jones, 42, has collected more than $148,000 and received endorsement from the Democratic Progressive Caucus of Florida. The Miami Gardens native, who holds a doctorate in education from Florida Atlantic University, has focused criticism on healthcare costs and prescription drug accessibility.

Three additional candidates round out the field: Jean Monestime, a former Miami-Dade commissioner with $57,000 raised; Roderick D. Vereen, a criminal defense attorney with $15,000; and Marshal L. Davis Sr., director of an African heritage cultural center with over $13,000 in receipts.

The Democratic primary is scheduled for August 18, with mail-in ballot requests due by August 6. The general election follows on November 3.