(Le Floridien) — In an unexpected development, Haitian American educator Wallace Aristide, who joined the race at the last minute, claimed a decisive victory in the Democratic primary for Florida State Representative District 107. Aristide, who entered the crowded field of six contenders, managed to secure 44.89% of the vote, translating to 7,827 ballots cast in his favor.
Aristide’s late entry did not deter his campaign from resonating powerfully with voters. His ability to connect with the electorate allowed him to outpace his opponents by a substantial margin. Loreal Arscott, initially considered a strong contender, finished in a distant second place with 17.61% of the vote, or 3,070 votes. Monique Barley-Mayo followed with 11.31% (1,972 votes), while Christine Sanon-Jules Olivo garnered 10.98% (1,915 votes).
Haitian Americans Faudlin Pierre and Wancito Francius, who also competed in the primary, received 8.70% (1,517 votes) and 6.50% (1,134 votes), respectively, rounding out the field.
Aristide’s victory is particularly remarkable considering that he was not initially seen as a frontrunner. His success is a testament to his strong connection with the community and the effectiveness of his campaign strategy, which was crafted by well-known political strategists Jean Patrick Maignan and Makenson Jeanty. Their approach centered on key community issues and highlighted Aristide’s extensive background in education.
Though Aristide was not actively campaigning for much of the race, he is no novice to the political arena. In August 2022, he finished third in the primary for Miami-Dade County Commissioner District 2, a contest ultimately won by activist and social worker Marleine Bastien in a run-off against former North Miami Mayor Philippe Bien-Aimé.
With over 30 years of experience in Miami-Dade County Public Schools, including more than a decade as Principal of Miami Northwestern Senior High School and six years as Assistant Principal, Aristide brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to his candidacy. His career also includes roles as a teacher, head football coach, and athletic director.
The principal of a technology magnet high school in Miami campaigned on a platform focused on bolstering local business growth, reducing rent, and enhancing community safety initiatives.
Now, as the Democratic nominee, Aristide faces the general election with confidence, as no Republican candidate has filed to run in the solidly Democratic Miami-Dade County district, which includes Miami Gardens, North Miami Beach, and the unincorporated Golden Glades neighborhood.
