Seasoned Pinellas County history teacher Timothy “Brandt” Robinson has officially filed to run as a Democrat for Florida’s 13th Congressional District, a seat currently held by Republican Representative Anna Paulina Luna, who is seeking another term.
“I’m running for Congress,” Robinson said in a social media post. “I can’t believe I’m saying that.” He and his wife, Carole, reached the decision while rock climbing in Scottsboro, Alabama. Robinson said the final push came over hotel breakfast when his wife told him, “I can’t not share you with the world.”
A week before launching his campaign, Robinson introduced gubernatorial candidate David Jolly at a fundraiser at United Methodist Church in Pinellas Park. Robinson has taught social studies and African American History for more than 20 years, and has been active in local advocacy.
In 2022, the Florida Education Association honored him with the FEA Human and Civil Rights Leadership Award for his work supporting diversity and social justice. He also chaired the PCTA Human and Civil Rights Committee for a decade, advising educators on equity and inclusion in the classroom.
According to his campaign website, Robinson is focusing on healthcare for all, affordable housing and insurance, reproductive rights, protecting Social Security and Medicare and an economy “that works for everyone.”
Robinson enters a difficult race. Luna has secured endorsements from President Donald J. Trump and the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk, and has raised over $650,000 in campaign contributions, according to financial filings.
Still, Robinson appears undeterred. “Are you ready for this, darling?” he asked his wife on social media. “Oh, yes,” she replied.