Democratic candidate for Florida House District 47 Anna V. Eskamani won the 2018 Political Salsa Straw Poll!

Organized by the Puerto Rican Bar Association of Florida, Political Salsa is a non-partisan political mixer and forum where, “candidates are able to gain exposure and get their message across to a large and diverse audience, but specifically, the bustling Puerto Rican and Hispanic communities of Central Florida.” Political Salsa is in its third year, and you can click here to learn more about the event itself.

Official results for the straw poll came in over the weekend, and had Anna on top with 47% of the vote. Other Democrats did well too, and you can see the full straw poll results here.

“I am humbled by the outpouring of support from members of our Puerto Rican and latinx communities, and proud to be endorsed by Vamos for Puerto Rico Action too,” said Anna. “We know all too well that many people of color face systematic barriers to accessing healthcare, good paying jobs, affordable housing, and other important support systems that would allow them to achieve economic stability. Understanding the struggles of our diverse community is key to effective leadership, and Floridians of all backgrounds can trust me to fight on their behalf with both grit and grace.

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More About Anna
Anna V. Eskamani is an Orlando native and daughter of immigrants who has worked relentlessly her entire life to protect all members of our community through effective advocacy, bold leadership, and strategic management. A community organizer with a proven track record in building consensus while fighting unapologetically for progressive values, for the last six years Anna served as the Senior Director of Public Affairs and Communications for Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida. She managed a team of six across 22 counties and is known in the legislature and across the nation as an advocate for women’s health and equality. Anna is also a PhD student in Public Affairs at the University of Central Florida and serves as an Adjunct Professor teaching Intro to Women’s Studies. Tough, authentic and unafraid, Anna is a progressive who has proven herself as a leader who works hard, delivers results, and gets things done.

Anna has earned the endorsement of over 60 community leaders and organizations, including an early endorsement from Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. She was also one of the 48 women featured on the cover of Time magazine. When elected, Anna will be the first Iranian-American to serve in the Florida legislature.