Democrat Gwen Graham, a Tallahassee attorney and the daughter of former U.S. Senator and Florida Governor Bob Graham, unseated two-term Republican Rep. Steve Southerland on November 4 becoming the first women ever to win the 2nd Congressional District seat.
Graham won with 50.6 percent of the votes.
She pledged to be a “strong voice” for her constituents as she addressed supporters. “I am going to work hard every single day. I’m going to build and forge relationships, and I’m going to make sure that Congress is not dysfunctional but is willing to work together.”
Graham reached out to Republican Reps. Jeff Miller and Ted Yoho of the 1st and 3rd Congressional Districts in an effort to establish a working relationship for the Florida Panhandle. “We can do what is right for the people here in North Florida,” she said.
During her candidacy, Graham promoted an economic plan focused on supporting agriculture and tourism-based industries, veteran workforce training, vocational training through established community colleges, and tax breaks for small businesses.
She had the support of well-known Democrats during the end of her campaign including former President Bill Clinton and popular singer Jimmy Buffett who stumped for her in Tallahassee.
As Graham campaigned in generally Republican rural counties in the district, she emphasized the importance of working together. “Let’s get back to a time when no matter what party you’re in, you’re working hard on behalf of all the people that elected you.”