NewsFlorida PoliticsMay 5, 2026Florida
Pinellas Sheriff Bob Gualtieri Endorses Sydney Gruters for Congress
Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri has endorsed Sarasota Republican Sydney Gruters in her bid for Florida's 16th Congressional District. Gualtieri cited Gruters' understanding of public safety and her experience as reasons for his support. This endorsement is significant as a new congressional map has shifted a portion of the district into Pinellas County.
Read the full story at Florida PoliticsWhy It Matters
Residents of Florida's 16th Congressional District should care because key law enforcement officials are publicly backing candidates, influencing voter perception in an election that will determine federal representation.
Key Facts
- Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri has endorsed Sydney Gruters for Congress.
- A new congressional map means 31% of Florida's 16th Congressional District is now in Pinellas County.
- Gruters has also received endorsements from Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt Hoffman and Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells.
- Gruters stated that a family of four in Pinellas County needs at least $89,000 for basic living expenses.
- Approximately 56% of voters in the new CD 16 lines supported Donald Trump in 2024.