From PoHo: Long-rumored and believed to be dropped early to beat Tampa City Councilman Thomas Scott to the punch, here is Democratic politico Les Miller’s formal announcement that he will run for Hillsborough County Commission. It will be a lively Democratic primary, even if Scott doesn’t run:
FORMER SENATOR LES MILLER TO RUN FOR COUNTY COMMISSION
TAMPA – Former State Senator Lesley “Les” Miller has filed to run for Hillsborough County Commission, District 3. Miller’s entry into the race will give the citizens of District 3 and Hillsborough County a candidate whose long history of public service makes him a formidable opponent.
Miller’s track record in government has provided proven leadership to his constituents in the Legislature for over 14 years, and his work in the district, county, and the state have served as preparation for representing District 3. Miller says, “The citizens of District 3 and Hillsborough County deserve credible representation and a Commissioner who has their interest in mind. We are facing challenging times in government, both nationally and locally. Our County is facing tough economic times and with state and federal dollars dwindling, District 3 deserves a Commissioner who knows government funding and can fully focus on the task at hand. Hillsborough County needs effective and honorable leadership they can trust.”
A veteran who served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War era, Miller is no stranger to service. He was first elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 1992. During his tenure in the House, Miller served as the Democratic Leader from 1998-2000 and was widely respected amongst his peers for his ability to work in a bipartisan manner.
In 2000, faced with term limits in the House, Miller ran for the Florida Senate representing District 18 and won. As a State Senator his colleagues again recognized his leadership abilities and elected him as the Democratic Leader in the Senate from 2004-2006.
Miller aim is to restore people’s faith in their elected officials by staying true to his personal belief in the value of hard work. “My mother and father told me, if you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem. I want the people of this district to know that this candidate comes from among them, walks with them, and continues to share in their daily burdens and hopes for a better tomorrow. This candidate is about bringing trusted and effective leadership back to our community.”
District 3 is currently represented by Kevin White.