“I have worked with Rep. Johnson for the last two years while he served as Chairman of the Growth Management Committee,” Mayor Diaz said in a statement. “His keen interest and attention to addressing the problems of rapid growth that face cities such as affordable and workforce housing has earned my highest respect. Now that the season’s first storm has hit the coast of Florida, I am convinced Rep. Johnson is the best choice to serve as our state’s Chief Financial Officer.”

Johnson also announced the backing of eight Miami-area state reps: Gus Barreiro, Anitere Flores, Rene Garcia, Marcelo Llorente, Carlos Lopez-Cantera, Julio Robaina, David Rivera and Juan-Carlos Planas.