Michael Weinstein, Democratic candidate for Florida State House District 81, is fighting to ensure every voice in his community is valued and represented in the state legislature. Michael is a father, husband, former prosecutor and Democratic community activist who has always had a passion for public service. His campaign so far has been met with wide-spread community support, including major endorsements from the Palm Beach County Police Benevolent Association and the Professional Firefighters and Paramedics of Palm Beach County.
“We need bold Democratic leadership to represent District 81 and Palm Beach County in the Florida Legislature. We need a fighter in Tallahassee who will look out for our community. I am that fighter,” stated Michael.
A lifelong Democrat, Michael has worked his entire career as an advocate for the community. An attorney by trade, he served as an Assistant State Attorney where he fought for justice. He now works as an attorney in private practice where he defends individual rights.
A Lifetime of Democratic Service
Michael got an early start on public advocacy, joining the Young Democrats, serving as Student Senator and chairing the Human Relations and Diversity Committees at University. Later, in law school, he was elected by his peers to serve as Student Bar Representative for three years straight.
“What I was most excited about was making a difference where and when I could. It’s not about the title, but about serving my community,” Michael added.
Michael took full advantage of his college summers and interned with Senator Bob Graham in Washington, D.C. During this time, he was presented with the opportunity to work with and learn from many Democratic Congressional Leaders.
After law school, Michael served as an Assistant State Attorney where he was recognized as one of the county’s top prosecutors in 2001. While working as an Assistant State Attorney, Michael focused on public safety, protected the innocent and worked to keep the community safe.
Today, Michael is a Florida Bar Certified Attorney in private practice where he works to ensure everyone is treated fairly. “I protect individual rights and freedoms, stand up to injustice and advocate for our community,” offered Michael.
Michael’s passion for justice is long-standing. For three terms, he served on the Florida Bar Criminal Procedure Rules Committee where he worked to draft statewide courtroom rules and procedures that ensured the justice system was fair for everyone.
Michael’s history of public service aligns directly with his priorities for the Florida Legislature. If elected, he promises to prioritize job creation and a living wage for all Floridians, to fix the state’s broken unemployment system, to increase funding for public schools, support investments to protect the environment, pass common-sense gun safety reform, expand access to affordable quality health care, create a strong relationship between Florida and Israel, and stand up against prejudice, racism and bigotry.
Campaign for Florida House of Representatives
After announcing his campaign, Michael Weinstein quickly built momentum in his campaign with fundraising, launching a District tour and locking up key endorsements from the local police and firefighter organizations. “My message and vision for our District is resonating. Community support in this campaign continues to build and I am working hard every day to earn the trust of voters,” Michael said in early June, in response to campaign efforts.
“This is only the beginning and our campaign continues to build momentum. As the only Democratic primary candidate who lives in District 81, I have embarked on a district-wide listening tour learning from leaders in West Boca, West Delray, and West Boynton to South Bay, Pahokee, and Belle Glade. We are meeting to listen and share our ideas so that together, we can move Florida forward,” Michael said.
A Family Tradition of Service
Raised by generations of Democratic leaders, Michael learned early on the importance of public service and having the courage to stand up for what you believe in. He comes from a family that prioritizes public service. Michael says it’s in his DNA.
Michael’s grandfather, Moses Weinstein, served as Speaker of the New York Assembly and was later elected Justice on the New York Supreme Court. His father, Peter Weinstein was the Florida Democratic Senate Majority Leader and a former Chief Judge. Michael’s mother, Dr. Barbara Weinstein, served as CEO of Family Central, a non-profit organization that works to support local kids and families. She is now the president of Congregation Kol Tikvah Synagogue.
Michael’s extensive history in public service and public advocacy proves that he isn’t afraid to stand up for what is best for his community and those in it; “As a former Assistant State Attorney and now, as a Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer, I have fought for the rights of people to ensure justice is served. Having served on numerous committees dedicated to professionalism, ethics, and integrity, I know what it takes to earn the public’s trust. Now I want to earn your vote.”
House District 81 is an open seat. The election is on Tuesday, August 18th.
To learn more about Michael, please visit Weinstein for State House and connect with him on Facebook.
