Lenny Curry, currently exploring a bid to become Jacksonville mayor, is announcing on Thursday he will step down as chair of the Florida Republican Party, reports the Florida Times-Union.
Curry will send a letter of resignation to the Republican Party leadership on Thursday and remain as chair through the end of May.
The move comes shortly after an endorsement from Peter Rummell, the powerful Northeast Florida GOP fundraiser, who could be a significant supporter for Curry.
Rummell told the Times-Union in a recent interview that he will back the GOP chair against embattled Jacksonville Mayor Alvin Brown in the 2015 mayor’s race.
Rummell had supported Brown in his 2011 run against opponent Mike Hogan — a Republican who Rummell considered too conservative for the needs of Jacksonville.
With a personal $150,000 donation to Brown, opening the door for other downtown business and civic leaders, Rummell’s influence played a key role in Brown’s narrow victory.
Rummell, scorching in his criticism of Brown’s performance in office, is now throwing his considerable sway behind Curry.
“Peter is a man who has made an unparalleled commitment to seeing Jacksonville achieve great things. His support and confidence in my abilities as a leader are humbling,” Curry told the Times-Union last week. “I look forward to soon sharing my vision for how I can serve our community.”
