3 Women Could Become The First Black Female Republican To Rep Florida

History could be made if any of these three Black women win their local races. Vennia Francois, Carla Spalding and Lavern Spicer are running as Republican for seats in Florida Congressional Districts. Each of them could be one of the first Black Republican women to represent the Sunshine State in U.S. Congress and the House of Representatives, according to the Center for American Women And Politics. Below are each candidates' backgrounds, their opponent and the district they're running for.

Vennia Francois

Vennia Francois (R) is running against Democratic incumbent Val Demings for the 10th Congressional seat in Florida. This district represents the western half of Orlando and parts of Orange, Lake and Polk counties. The Orlando native has an extensive career practicing law and experience working in political offices, including SEC, the Certification Appeals Board of Orlando, and Orange County’s Minority & Women’s Business Enterprise Committee.

Carla Spalding

Carla Spalding (R) is running against Democratic incumbent Debbie Wasserman Schultz for the 23rd Congressional seat in Florida. The district represents parts of Miami-Dade and Broward counties, including Pembroke Pines, Weston, Davie and Aventura. According to her website, Spalding is described as a business owner who immigrated from Jamaica. She also served in the U.S. Navy and worked as a professor. Spalding was also recognized as VA Nurse of the Year in 2013.

Lavern Spicer

Lavern Spicer (R) is running against Democratic incumbent Frederica S. Wilson for the 24th Congressional seat in Florida. This district represents parts of Miami-Dade and Broward counties, including Miami, Miami Gardens, Opa-Locka, Miramar, and Hollywood. Spicer has lived in Miami since 1984 and owns Curley's Beauty Salon. She also operates a nonprofit organization, Curley's House, which feeds families in the community.

Photos: Courtesy Of Vennia For Congress, Carla Spalding for Congress and Lavern Spicer For U.S. Congress.