Candidate’s Ties to Past Raise Questions in Florida Congressional Race
In Florida’s Sixth Congressional District, a primary race is heating up between newcomer Aaron Baker and incumbent Congressman Randy Fine. Baker, who is presenting himself as a strong conservative voice, faces scrutiny over his recent move to the district and his connections to his father, Edwin Blackwelder, who has a troubling criminal history.
Baker, a general contractor, registered to vote in the district in June 2023. This was shortly after his father purchased a home in Sorrento, Florida, which Baker now lists as his legal residence. The timing of this move and the financial ties to his father are raising eyebrows among voters.
Blackwelder’s past includes a conviction for second-degree murder in 1980, for which he served over 20 years in prison. More recently, in 2019, he was arrested and charged with importing and distributing opioid pills from China. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to deliver a controlled substance and was sentenced to probation.
Adding to the concerns, Blackwelder has been involved in Baker’s business ventures. He served as the registered agent for Sunshine State Construction and Design, a company managed by Baker. The financial and professional relationship between Baker and his father is becoming a key issue in the campaign.
Congressman Fine, who is backed by President Donald Trump, easily defeated Baker in a special election. President Trump has voiced his strong support for Fine, praising him as a dedicated voice for the people of Florida.
Baker has aligned himself with James Fishback, a controversial figure. Fishback has faced accusations of inappropriate behavior.
Baker acknowledged that Blackwelder is his father. He stated that he was unaware of a past incident involving another individual.
The questions surrounding Baker’s background and associations could present a significant hurdle as he seeks to unseat a well-established and supported incumbent in a district that strongly favors conservative principles. Voters will need to weigh these concerns as they decide who is best suited to represent them in Congress. The focus on family and associates highlights the importance of character and judgment in choosing our elected officials. It remains to be seen how these issues will impact the final outcome of the election.
