The USS Monitor was an ironclad ship built by a reluctant Navy during the Civil War. The idea was new to the Navy and the innovation scared the tradition bound minds of the Ironclad Board. They were convinced by Captain Ericsson and commissioned it anyway. The USS Monitor went on the stop the CSS Virginia from inflicting damage on other Union ships and through its innovation led the way for better ships that would claim naval superiority for the Union. It cost $275,000 to build that ship. The government invested in something totally unheard of and was rewarded with victory.

I am running for a seat on the Florida Legislature. There are 120 members that make laws, approve the budget, and oversee government agencies. I am asking you like Captain Ericsson to believe in our campaign, which though unorthodox will pave the way for a new frontier in American politics. And it all starts right here in our home, Miami. Why are we unorthodox?

I am pulling away from typical political money, which comes with more strings than an embroidery machine. I have instructed my team to disregard consultants that want us to jump through hoops to impress insiders, and instead to focus on reaching every voter in our district. Finally, I have set a course for us that involves treating every issue with seriousness and the best interests of our district and state. No party, group, lobbyist, or political committee will deviate me from that path. Too long have old stale policies led to the same problems. Voters are tired and are demanding fresh voices that will not be browbeat into submission. They are correct.

I'm Tony J Diaz and I want to represent us in Tallahassee. I will stop lobbyists from raiding our state's coffers. I will bridge the gap between entrenched parties that halt progress on important issues. I will prioritize families and locals over foreign interests. Most importantly I will serve you faithfully until the day I am no longer able to do so, because like Florida I am not for sale.

Thank you.

T