Democrats Ricky Shirah and Javier Fernandez are vying for open seats in the Florida state legislature.

Democrats need to gain 20 seats in 2018 to take control of the Florida House, and winning two of them in the special elections that are scheduled on May 1st would go a long way toward achieving that goal. Special elections are all about turnout: because awareness tends to be really low that special elections are even happening, not very many people actually vote – so a small number of voters can make all the difference in the world.

Here are some details about the Democrats who are running, and what you can do to help get them elected.

Florida House District 114: Democrat Javier Fernandez

Background: Javier was raised in a single-parent household in western Miami-Dade County and attended Christopher Columbus HS, where he played football. After earning a college degree on academic scholarship, Javier served in the non-profit sector and as Chief of Staff to the Mayor of Miami. Later, Javier earned his law degree from the University of Miami and has been a practicing attorney in the area for years while raising his two children with his wife, Anna Maria.

On the Issues (from Javier’s website): “Javier firmly believes access to quality, public education is fundamental to a dynamic economy and combating our community’s growing income inequality. Javier will prioritize state investment in the areas of transportation and affordable housing to address both growing crises that threaten our quality of life. Finally, Javier will be an effective voice in the Florida House for state action to address the growing threat of climate change and more sensible gun reform.”

Endorsements Include: Miami Herald, Moms Demand Action, AFSCME, Planned Parenthood.

Voting: Find out where to vote on Election Day here.

How You Can Help Javier Win:

Phone Banking : Phone calls are the most effective GOTV strategy (next to door-to-door canvasing), and calls can be made from anywhere. Sign up and learn how easy it is!

: Phone calls are the most effective GOTV strategy (next to door-to-door canvasing), and calls can be made from anywhere. and learn how easy it is! Volunteering: Check out some other ways to help in the final stages of the campaign.

Check out in the final stages of the campaign. Social Media : Amplify Javier’s Facebook Twitter accounts.

: Amplify Javier’s accounts. Learn & Support: Find out more about Javier and how to support him!

Florida House District 39: Democrat Ricky Shirah

Background: Ricky has lived his entire life in Polk County, graduating high school there and working as a trainer of commercial drivers prior to opening his own towing company in 1994. He is a community mainstay, and has a long history of giving back to his local community through direct community service as well as by serving on boards, and advisory councils.

On the Issues (from Ricky’s website): “Democracy thrives when government is inclusive, responsive, transparent and accountable to all its citizens. These values foster public trust, participation, and collaboration. Floridians have a right to know how their State Representative votes and know that those votes are not being influenced by campaign contributions from interest groups.” Ricky focuses on key issues of significance to his community:

Endorsements Include: Congressman Darren Soto, School Board Member Billy Townsend, Polk Soil and Water Conservation District Treasurer Brian Dockery, Former Congresswoman Pat Schroeder, Minority Whip Rep. John Cortez, Democratic Women’s Club of Florida.

Voting: Find out where to vote on Election Day here.

How You Can Help Ricky Win:

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