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. The race is significant as it seeks to succeed U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson, who has represented the district for approximately 13 years.
Candidate Profiles and Backgrounds
The field includes seven candidates with diverse professional backgrounds. Oliver G. Gilbert III, a Miami-Dade commissioner and former mayor of Miami Gardens, received an endorsement from Rep. Wilson. Gilbert holds degrees from Florida Agriculturalal and Mechanical University and the University of Miami.
Florida Sen. Shevrin Jones also competes for the seat. Born in Hollywood and raised in Miami Gardens, Jones earned a bachelor’s degree from Florida A&M University as well as master's and doctorate degrees in education from Florida Atlantic University. He previously served in the Florida House of Representatives before his current role in the Senate.
Kendrick Meek Jr., 29, follows a political legacy established by his father, former U.S. Rep. Kendrick B. Meek, and his grandmother, the late Carrie Meek. Both relatives represented Florida’s 17th Congressional District. Kendrick Meek Jr. holds degrees from the University of Florida and the University of Miami, with prior experience as a White House aide on healthcare policy under the Biden administration.
Other Contenders in the Race
Rudolph Moise, a retired U.S. Air Force Reserve Colonel and physician, brings international diplomatic experience to the race. Born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, he served as ambassador-at-large for investment for the Republic of Haiti in 2014. He holds degrees from the University of Illinois, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, and the University of Miami.
Miami-Dade County Commissioner Jean Monestime, who served as chairman from 2014 to 2016, also seeks the nomination. Born in Haiti’s Saint-Louis du Nord, he holds degrees from Florida International University and Nova Southeastern University. Criminal defense attorney Roderick D. Vereen rounds out the legal professionals in the field, having worked as an assistant federal public defender and state attorney.
Marshal L. Davis Sr., director of the African Heritage Cultural Arts Center since 1963, emphasized governance by principles during his campaign efforts. The Democratic primary is scheduled for Aug. 18, with early voting beginning on Aug. 8. Mail-in ballot requests were due by Aug. 6.
