"Professional Firefighters and Paramedics of Okeechobee IAFF Local 2918 Endorse Ben Butler for Congress"
When the rest of us are running away from danger, they’re running toward it. They don’t ask who’s calling or what political party they belong to, they just show up and do the job.
OKEECHOBEE, FL — Ben Butler, Republican candidate for Florida’s 9th Congressional District, today announced the endorsement of the Professional Firefighters and Paramedics of Okeechobee, IAFF Local 2918.
“First responders need leaders who respect the sacrifices made by firefighters, law enforcement officers, and EMTs every day,” said a representative of IAFF Local 2918. “Ben Butler has demonstrated that commitment throughout his career, and we know he’ll be a strong advocate for those of us who protect our communities. We’re proud to support Ben Butler for Congress.”
“I’m truly honored to earn the endorsement of the firefighters and paramedics of IAFF Local 2918,” Butler said. “When the rest of us are running away from danger, they’re running toward it. They don’t ask who’s calling or what political party they belong to, they just show up and do the job.
“I’ve spent my life working on a farm, serving my community, and trying to leave Florida a little better than I found it. I know what it means to put in long days, answer tough calls, and serve something bigger than yourself. That’s exactly what our firefighters and paramedics do every single day.
“In Congress, I’ll always fight to make sure our first responders have the resources they need, the backing they deserve, and a representative who never forgets the sacrifices they and their families make. I’m grateful for their trust, and I’ll work every day to earn it.”
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Benjamin "Ben" Butler is a lifelong, ninth-generation Floridian, agricultural leader, businessman, and public servant rooted in the values of faith, hard work, stewardship, and service.
Raised in Central Florida, Ben helped build and operate Butler Oaks Farm, a multi-generational dairy and cattle operation. Through decades of hands-on experience, he managed employees, balanced budgets, navigated complex regulations, and made the real-world decisions necessary to keep a business running and families employed.
Governor DeSantis appointed Ben to the South Florida Water Management District Governing Board in 2019, 2021, and 2024, where he has helped oversee Everglades restoration, flood protection, water supply, and natural resource management across South Florida.
Ben has also served in leadership roles with the Florida Farm Bureau, Florida FFA Foundation, Southeast Milk Inc., and Newtrient. A former Florida FFA State President, Ben has long believed in investing in future generations and strengthening Florida's rural communities.
Ben earned both bachelor's and master's degrees in Animal Science from the University of Florida, with a focus on dairy management, agricultural economics, and natural resource management.
Ben is joined in his commitment to agriculture and youth development by his wife, April, a native Floridian, FSU graduate, and former law enforcement professional who volunteers with 4-H, FFA Alumni, and the South Florida Fair dairy shows. Their daughter Hannah raises registered dairy and beef heifers through FFA and 4-H, and is active in Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Club America at her high school.
Together, the Butler family remains deeply rooted in Florida's Heartland, dedicated to preserving its agricultural heritage, supporting youth leadership, and serving their community.
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With the excitement of the campaign growing, Butler has picked up many endorsements, both federal and local, including:
Congressional:
Kat Cammack – Congresswoman, FL-03
Greg Steube – Congressman, FL-17
City of Okeechobee:
Dowling Watford, Jr. – Mayor
Monica Clark – Vice Mayor
Noel Chandler – Council Member
Bob Jarriel – Council Member
David McAuley – Council Member
Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners:
David Hazellief – Chair, Commissioner
Terry Burroughs – 1st Vice Chair, Commissioner
Bradley Goodbread – 2nd Vice Chair, Commissioner
Frank DeCarlo – Commissioner
Michael Sumner – Commissioner
Okeechobee County School Board:
Jill Holcomb – Board Chair, District 5
Christine Bishop – Vice Chair, District 1
Malissa Morgan – Board Member, District 2
Melisa Jahner – Board Member, District 3
Amanda Riedel – Board Member, District 4
Highlands County Board of County Commissioners:
Chris Campbell – Vice Chair, Commissioner
Arlene Tuck – Commissioner
Scott Kirouac – Commissioner
Kevin Roberts – Commissioner
Scott Kirouac - Commissioner
Sheriffs:
Sheriff Paul Blackman – Highlands County
Sheriff David Hardin – Glades County
Sheriff Noel Stephen – Okeechobee County
Sheriff Eric Flowers – Indian River County
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Release Date:
July 1, 2026
Press Contact:
Derek Dufresne
Derek@ascent-strategic.com
