Newby commissioner is David Richardson’s first Senate nod

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Way more than a little early in the game, State Rep. David Richardson has announced a “key endorsement” this week in his bid to become a state senator: Miami-Dade Commissioner Daniella Levine Cava.

Say what?

Levine Cava is the newest county commissioner and, as such, probably wields the least power on the dais. She is not who one immediately thinks of when one hears the words “key endorsement.”

But she beat former Vice Chair Lynda Bell in what many saw as a David vs. Goliath fight that drew the support of labor leaders and the Miami-Dade Democratic Party, including legislators like Richardson. former Congressman Joe Garcia, Homestead Mayor Jeff Porter and Pinecrest Mayor Cindy Lerner — some of whom you can expect to join the Richardson bandwagon, too.

Read related story: David Richardson sets sights on Sen. Gwen Margolis’ seat

Levine Cava’s may just have been the easiest endorsement to snare quickly, since they share campaign consultants: Christian Ulvert, the campaign consultant and Florida Democratic Political Director, helped Levine Cava to victory and is now on Team Richardson.

“I am proud to stand with David Richardson in his campaign for the state senate,” Levine Cava said in a pretty rote statement. “David has been a strong leader for Miami-Dade residents in the Florida House and his leadership in the State Senate will ensure our community has a strong voice in Tallahassee.”

Richardson’s statement was equally template: “I am extremely grateful to have the support of such an inspiring and trusted leader. Daniella Levine Cava shows us everyday how one voice can truly make a difference.”

Really? She’s made a difference already? How? I mean, give her time and maybe. But she’s one vote.

Ulvert said the nod was not his cashing in on a favor. “If I was, I’d have a long list of people endorsing him,” he told Ladra.

That list might start with Miami Beach Mayor Philip Levine. Ulvert worked on his campaign in 2013 and will again this year (more on that later). But Levine might already be aligned (awkward!) with the son of friend Chris Korge. Andrew Korge has also announced his candidacy for the seat currently held by Sen. Gwen Margolis. Miami Beach City Commissioner Deede Weithorn told Ladra recently that she, too, was likely going to run for the seat.

Margolis was rumored to be planning a retirement at the end of this term, but has since come out saying that she is not going anywhere in 2016 if she feels as good as she does today. And if that is the case, Richardson has said he won’t run against her. No matter how saddened and upset those close to him say he may be at her about face.

Of course, las malas lenguas say she is just making these declarations to scare off other would-be vultures, since she’s already given Richardson her blessing.

Which, by the way, is the most important endorsement Richardson could get.

  Daniella Levine Cava, David Richardson, Gwen Margolis