The Florida Citrus Mutual, representing about 1,500 growers, announced its endorsement of Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson for re-election.

The organization, founded in 1948, says its members generate roughly $6.9 billion in annual economic impact and employ more than 32,500 people on 208,183 acres.

Simpson, a former Senate President, has more than $33 million on hand and received a Trump endorsement and support from 61 of Florida’s 67 sheriffs.

His primary opponents include a Clearwater welder who changed his name to ‘Matt The Welder’ and two Democratic candidates, Joey Mendoza Atkins and Donald Prichard.

The endorsement follows a budget allocation of nearly $140 million for the 2025‑2026 fiscal year and an additional $196 million this year, including $160 million for the Citrus Research and Field Trial Foundation to accelerate research and combat citrus greening.

Simpson said he is grateful to partner with the growers to protect Florida agriculture’s future.

The primary election is set for August 18, and the outcome will determine the next agriculture commissioner.