ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Many of the people on Florida ballots appeared at a forum in Orlando Thursday evening to discuss problems affecting Central Florida.
The third annual Political Salsa event gave voters the opportunity to meet candidates and learn about where they stand on major issues.
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This year’s event held special significance for thousands of displaced Puerto Ricans temporarily calling Central Florida home after Hurricane Maria.
Organizers posted on Facebook Monday that the event was sold out.
The event was hosted by the Puerto Rican Bar Association. The panels were moderated by Channel 9 anchor Nancy Alvarez.
The following candidates participated:
- State House candidate Anna Eskamani (Democrat)
- State House candidate Bob Cortes (Republican)
- U.S. Rep. Darren Soto (Democrat)
- U.S. House candidate Mike Miller (Republican)
- U.S. House candidate Wayne Liebnitzky (Republican)
- Orange County Sheriff candidate Joe Lopez (Democrat)
- Orange County Commissioner candidate Maribel Gomez-Cordero (Democrat)
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"The majority of (those in attendance are) Puerto Ricans who want to know what is going on in the political climate of Central Florida and the state of Florida," said JJ Rodriguez, a Hispanic Republican leader.
Organizers said their goal was to host a non-partisan, festive campaign atmosphere that empowers Puerto Rican voters to learn more about the region and the people on the ballot.
The event was held at the Acacia on North Econlockhatchee Trail near East Colonial Drive in Union Park.
Florida's primary will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 28.
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