A week after the death of Congressman Alcee Hastings, a second Broward County Commissioner has announced he's running for the U.S. House seat.
Former Mayor Dale Holness held an event Monday night to make the announcement. He said Hastings was a voice for those who were left out, a voice who spoke for those who were voiceless.
Standing next to Holness were Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis, Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony and the son of the late congressman, Alcee "Jody" Hastings II, who said his family stands firmly behind Holness.
The 64-year old is expected to be a leading candidate in a very crowded race, which already includes fellow Broward Commissioner Barbara Sharief. She declared her candidacy four months ago.
Democrat Hastings was diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer in 2018. He had served in the U.S. House since 1993.
There are several other names of South Florida politicians who are said to be considering a run for the District 20 Congressional seat, including Palm Beach County state Senator Bobby Powell.
It's up to Gov. DeSantis to set a date for the election to fill the rest of Hastings' term, which he has not done yet.
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