Former Florida Governor Charlie Crist has endorsed Keith Fitzgerald, the Democratic candidate for the 16th U.S. Congressional District.
Crist and Fitzgerald made the announcement during a news conference Tuesday in Sarasota.
Fitzgerald, a political science professor at New College of Florida, opposes Republican incumbent Vern Buchanan.
Previously, as a Republican, Crist had supported Buchanan.
"I'm not here to run anybody down," said Crist. "I'm here to support my friend. A lot of things have changed over the years, particularly with my former party. I'm so happy and much more comfortable being where I am right now."
A small group of protesters gathered outside the news conference with flip flops and signs saying Crist could not be trusted.
Fitzgerald has lived in Sarasota since 1994. He served in the Florida House of Representatives and is a married father of twins.
The District includes parts of Sarasota and Manatee counties.