Custom guide ballot, 2024 Florida general election
Includes races in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco open to all registered voters.
This is not an official ballot, and it does not show every race that may be on yours. Use our guide to help you fill out your ballot at home or at the polls.
U.S. President
( ) Donald J. Trump (REP)
This candidate did not respond to multiple requests to participate in the voter guide. Answers are based on public statements and other available information.
Former president convicted of falsifying business records, three-time presidential nominee, TV star. Education: Bachelor's in economics, University of Pennsylvania.
What are your top three priorities?
According to his campaign website, Trump's top three priorities are immigration ("Seal the border and stop the migrant invasion; carry out the largest deportation operation in American history"); affordability ("end inflation") and defending the Constitution "including freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the right to keep and bear arms."
Why are you running?
Trump has been highly critical of the direction of the country under President Joe Biden. "America is now rocked by raging inflation, open borders, rampant crime, attacks on our children, and global conflict, chaos, and instability," his party platform reads. He says he's running to reverse what he calls American decline and build on what he describes as the economic successes of his presidency.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
When asked about abortion this year, Trump has given contradictory answers. "You need more time than six weeks," Trump said in an apparent criticism of the law. But later his campaign clarified that he would be voting against the Amendment 4 proposal that would undo the six-week abortion ban. The former president has touted his appointment of three conservative Supreme Court justices, all of whom voted to end federal abortion protections in the case Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
Trump is running on a plan to "unleash American energy." "We will DRILL, BABY, DRILL and we will become energy independent, and even dominant again," his policy platform reads. (America produces more oil than any country in history, per the U.S. Energy Information Administration.) He's also said he will cut burdensome regulations, rein in spending and reduce illegal immigration, which he argues is driving up the price of housing.
Do you believe the property insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
In 2023, during the Republican presidential primary race, Trump criticized Gov. Ron DeSantis over the high cost of property insurance in Florida. He's pledged to reduce inflation as president. However, beyond a general cutting of costs, it's unclear what his administration would do about the cost of property insurance.
Should the federal government remove marijuana from the list of scheduled drugs? If so, why? If not, why not?
"We will continue to focus on research to unlock the medical uses of marijuana to a Schedule 3 drug, and work with Congress to pass common sense laws, including safe banking for state authorized companies," Trump wrote in a Sept. 8 Truth Social post. He's also said he will vote for Amendment 3, which would legalize marijuana for adult personal use in Florida.
Venezuela's election was deemed fraudulent. How should the U.S. help Venezuelans live freely in a democracy?
"Venezuela is right now being run by a dictator," Trump said in August. One of his last moves as president was to extend protected status for Venezuelans facing deportation. In general, Trump has been critical of the Biden-Harris approach to foreign policy, which he says has allowed bad actors to create havoc on the world stage.
( ) Kamala D. Harris (DEM)
This candidate did not respond to multiple requests to participate in the voter guide. Answers are based on public statements and other available information.
Vice president of the United States, former U.S. senator from California, former California attorney general. Education: Bachelor's, Howard University; law degree, University of California, Hastings.
What are your top three priorities?
Harris' campaign website says she wants to create an "opportunity economy" in which a strengthened middle class sees reduced costs. She's also running on protecting civil rights and the right to an abortion, and on ending gun violence and fixing the country's broken immigration system.
Why are you running?
At the presidential debate between Harris and Donald Trump in September, Harris said she intends to be a president for all Americans. She said she's running to unite the country around a forward-looking vision for the future in contrast to what she says is Trump's vision of the past. Her campaign website says this would mean protecting "fundamental freedoms," strengthening democracy and ensuring "every person has the opportunity to not just get by, but to get ahead."
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
Harris visited Jacksonville the week Florida's six-week abortion ban went into effect. At that campaign stop, she criticized the law, saying: "Starting this morning, women in Florida became subject to an abortion ban so extreme it applies before many women even know they are pregnant. Which, by the way, tells us the extremists who wrote this ban either don't know how a woman's body works or they simply don't care." Harris has said she supports allowing abortion until fetal viability.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
Harris supports expanding the child tax credit and the earned income tax credit. She has said she supports rolling back the Trump-era tax cuts on the wealthiest Americans and enacting a billionaire minimum tax. She would support building millions more rental units to drive down the cost of living and she's said she would expand the tax deduction for those starting businesses from $5,000 to $50,000. She's also said she would take on "corporate price gouging."
Do you believe the property insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
Like Trump, many planks of Harris' affordability platform would affect property insurance. If prices generally go down, insurance rates might climb slower. As far as specifics go, Harris said during the debate that one of the things driving the skyrocketing cost of insurance is climate change. She's said she would continue the investments in green energy that the Biden administration implemented and that she would continue to push for more natural gas production.
Should the federal government remove marijuana from the list of scheduled drugs? If so, why? If not, why not?
When Harris was running to be California's attorney general, she did not support the legalization of marijuana. However, she has since reversed her stance, saying it is "absurd" that the federal government long considered the drug to be as dangerous as substances like fentanyl. The Biden administration, of which Harris is a part, has moved to relist marijuana under a different federal classification.
Venezuela's election was deemed fraudulent. How should the U.S. help Venezuelans live freely in a democracy?
Harris criticized Venezuela strongman Nicolas Maduro, who lost his reelection campaign this summer, then moved to crush protests after refusing to transfer power. Harris said the international community should call for Venezuelan precincts to publish the polling station-level results from that election, and condemned Maduro's use of force in the weeks following the vote.
U.S. Senator
The statewide race for the U.S. Senate seat held by Rick Scott will determine whom Floridians send to Washington, D.C. for the next six years. Every state has two Senate seats. The job pays $174,000 per year.
( ) Rick Scott (REP)
Served as Florida's 45th governor; Navy veteran, business leader. Education: Bachelor's from University of Missouri-Kansas City; law degree from Southern Methodist University.
What are your top three priorities?
1. Fight back against the Democrats' socialist agenda, which leads to raising taxes, expanding government control, limiting opportunities and taking away our freedoms. I want to reduce taxes and put an end to the inflation that has been caused by Joe Biden and the Democrats' reckless spending. 2. Secure the border and stop the flow of terrorists and illegal drugs into our country. 3. Build up the American economy and military, and stand up to foreign adversaries, including Communist China.
Why are you running?
I grew up in public housing and my mom worked many jobs to put food on the table. I started working at age 7. Thanks to the dream of America, that poor kid built one of the largest companies in the world. I ran for governor to save Florida's economy. We turned it around, making Florida the best state to live, work and raise a family. Now, I see the dream slipping away thanks to Democrats' radical policies. I'm optimistic that, together, we can reverse course and get our country back on track.
What would you do to address inflation and the rising costs of food and housing in Tampa Bay?
The skyrocketing inflation we've seen over the past three years is being caused by wasteful government spending that's eating away at Floridians' savings and retirements. I'm fighting to eliminate federal waste and cut Washington's reckless spending so prices drop, and we can climb out of our staggering national debt. I am also working to protect Floridians' hard-earned tax dollars by making it harder for politicians to raise taxes and fees.
This past Congress has been historically dysfunctional. What will you do to ensure it works better?
I announced that I'm running for Senate Republican leader because we need to drastically change how Washington works and ensure it is actually helping American families. We must get rid of the status quo so we can fight harder for the issues that voters care about. Leadership should stop cutting secret, backroom deals that bypass the committee and amendment process so we can work together on delivering results for all Americans.
Do you support a national abortion ban? Why or why not? If so, at what threshold of a pregnancy?
No. I am pro-life, and I believe the issue of abortion should be up to the states to decide. Limiting abortion after 15 weeks with exceptions for rape, incest, and life of the mother is a commonsense position that stands in contrast to the Democrats' barbaric position of abortion, up until the moment of birth, paid for by taxpayers. I am also fighting to protect access to in vitro fertilization and contraception which is personal to me as my daughter is currently undergoing IVF to expand her family.
What policies do you support to help reduce the number of migrants coming across the Southern border?
Joe Biden and the Democrats refuse to enforce the law and have completely opened our southern border to criminals, terrorists and deadly drugs. Democrats demonize our brave Border Patrol agents while they are battling an unprecedented crisis created by Biden's incompetence. We need to start enforcing our laws again like we did under President Trump. We need to finish construction on the wall that the Democrats halted. And we need to defund sanctuary cities.
( ) Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (DEM)
Former U.S. representative from Miami-Dade, former FIU administrator. Education: Bachelor's from Pitzer College, master's from Claremont Graduate University.
What are your top three priorities?
I'm running to expand and protect economic opportunities, protect reproductive freedoms and end gun violence. I'm fighting to lower the cost of gas, groceries and insurance, and to protect Floridians' hard-earned benefits like Social Security and Medicare. I'll always champion Floridians' rights to make their own decisions without government interference. Having lost my father to gun violence, I'll always fight for commonsense reforms that make our communities safer.
Why are you running?
Only in Florida is it possible for an immigrant like me to have gone from working a minimum-wage job to serving in Congress. My story shouldn't be the exception, it should be the rule. But under Rick Scott, those opportunities are harder to come by. Rick Scott backs Florida's abortion ban and wrote the plan to raise taxes on the middle class and sunset Social Security and Medicare. I'm running to expand opportunities, protect your hard-earned benefits and champion Floridians' freedoms.
What would you do to address inflation and the rising costs of food and housing in Tampa Bay?
My first policy plan of the campaign is focused on lowering costs for Florida families. As senator, I would push legislation to lower home insurance rates by 25%, expand the Child Tax Credit to help over 1 million Florida families, and fight against the corporate consolidation of big grocery chains that drive up prices. I'd also back initiatives to compete with China by bringing the solar panel supply chain to Florida, lowering energy costs and creating jobs.
This past Congress has been historically dysfunctional. What will you do to ensure it works better?
We must end the gridlock, and that starts with electing new leaders ready to work across the aisle and solve the issues facing Florida. Rick Scott, one of the least bipartisan senators, has been in elected office for 14 years and all he has done is push an agenda to take away our freedoms and raise taxes on the middle class. I am ready to work with anyone to tackle the rising cost of living in Florida, expand Medicare and Social Security and protect our fundamental freedoms.
Do you support a national abortion ban? Why or why not? If so, at what threshold of a pregnancy?
Absolutely not. As a Latina, I've seen what it means to live under a government that wants to control every aspect of your life. I firmly believe that no government or politician has the right to interfere in the deeply personal, private decisions that occur between a woman, her doctor, her family, and her faith. As senator, I would vote to protect Floridians' reproductive freedoms, including access to abortion, in vitro fertilization and contraception.
What policies do you support to help reduce the number of migrants coming across the Southern border?
I supported the Border Patrol Union-backed, bipartisan border security bill this year, but Rick Scott voted against the funds to secure the border twice. I believe the bill was a good step towards protecting our national security, but we cannot solve the border crisis without also addressing violence and authoritarianism in Latin America. Immigrants don't want to leave their homes they do so when they have no other choice. We must address the violence forcing millions to flee Latin America.
U.S. Representative, District 12
Florida’s 12th Congressional District, long held by Republican Rep. Gus Bilirakis, encompasses Citrus, Hernando and part of Pasco counties. U.S. representatives serve two-year terms, make $174,000 annually and may live anywhere in the state.
( ) Gus Michael Bilirakis (REP)
U.S. representative since 2006, former state legislator and lawyer. Education: Bachelor's in political science from UF, law degree from Stetson University College of Law.
What are your top three priorities?
Securing our border by enacting HR 2, tackling inflation through reducing spending and passage of a balanced budget amendment, and restoring confidence in our republic by ensuring the rule of law, ending the weaponization of federal government agencies and reining in politically motivated bureaucrats who have continuously abused their power in their relentless desire to erode constitutional protections and promote a liberal agenda.
Why are you running?
I'm committed to fighting for seniors, children and veterans. This is a perilous time for our country. We need serious legislators with courage of conviction, conservative principles, a proven track record of working together to get things done, and a passion for constituent service. I want to continue to build upon my success as I work to help my constituents and community by creating a nation that is safe, an economy that is strong, a future that is free and a government that is accountable.
What would you do to address inflation and the rising costs of food and housing in Tampa Bay?
We must cut reckless spending, pass a balanced budget amendment and restore American energy independence. I'd start by eliminating bloated government bureaucracy, including the outrageous services and benefits provided to illegal aliens, which is estimated at $150.7 billion/year. We must return to an America-first agenda. Historically, American economic dominance has been achieved with pro-growth policies that reduce unnecessary regulation, foster innovation and allow small businesses to grow.
This past Congress has been historically dysfunctional. What will you do to ensure it works better?
A strength of this Congress is the diversity of thought within the Republican caucus. We're an inclusive party that represents different parts of the country, and we are united by our commitment to the success and security of our nation. It is not always pretty but it is through robust debate that good policy emerges. We cannot allow perfect to be the enemy of good and I will continue to find areas of agreement within my party and across the aisle so we can continue to move our country forward.
Do you support a national abortion ban? Why or why not? If so, at what threshold of a pregnancy?
I am unapologetically pro-life, and my voting record is reflective of my support for pro-life policies. I am also a staunch supporter of states' rights. The Dobbs ruling correctly left abortion in the hands of each state. However, I would be supportive of federal legislation to establish a minimum standard for all states to protect life at 15 weeks unless the mother's life is in danger. It is an outrage that some states allow abortion up to, and even after, birth. Infanticide must be outlawed.
What policies do you support to help reduce the number of migrants coming across the Southern border?
The Secure our Border Act would beef up border security, force the Biden administration to enforce the rule of law, restart border wall construction, increase the number of border patrol officers, end catch and release, require transparency, strengthen and streamline the asylum process by reinstating the Remain in Mexico policy, and protect unaccompanied children from human trafficking. I would ban monetary assistance from the government to disincentivize illegal aliens from crossing the border.
( ) Rock Aboujaoude Jr (DEM)
Climate science graduate student, former environmental analyst. Education: UF, bachelor's of science and master's of science.
What are your top three priorities?
First is ensuring Florida has a climate plan which addresses the significant economic fallout due to the increasing pressures of the climate crisis. Second is increasing support for STEM and critical thinking courses in education to defend against misinformation in the digital age. Third is investing in green jobs to bring economic wealth to the citizens of Congressional District 12.
Why are you running?
Without significant action, Florida stands to be the most affected by climate change. Food insecurity will destabilize our agricultural industry, and there will be stronger and more frequent hurricanes. Under a Florida climate defense plan, we can prepare adequately to avert that future. My education was in support of developing a climate defense plan for Florida.
What would you do to address inflation and the rising costs of food and housing in Tampa Bay?
First, we ought to stabilize energy costs, and source energy domestically. Second, we can invest in improving public health, which can lower health care bills overall.
This past Congress has been historically dysfunctional. What will you do to ensure it works better?
An olive branch can exist in the form of climate action. We need to present a united front on the climate crisis. I am fully in favor of bringing traditional conservative thinking into the climate crisis debate. How can we make every dollar count towards our climate goals and maximize our impact? A Republican could have that answer.
Do you support a national abortion ban? Why or why not? If so, at what threshold of a pregnancy?
I do not support an abortion ban. I believe in abortion up until the time of fetal viability, or about 22 weeks.
What policies do you support to help reduce the number of migrants coming across the Southern border?
While I do not imagine we need a Hadrian's Wall (we're much smarter than ancient wall-building), I do believe in strong border controls. Keep in mind that if temperatures rise by two degrees Celsius, there will be over 1.2 billion migrants around the world as a result of the climate crisis, likely by 2040. That is less than 16 years away. If you think it's bad now, imagine not acting on the climate crisis.
U.S. Representative, District 13
Florida’s 13th Congressional District, which encompasses most of Pinellas County, has been flagged by national Democrats as a potential blue pickup in 2024. Democrat Whitney Fox faces Republican U.S. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna in the general election. U.S. representatives serve two-year terms, make $174,000 annually and may live anywhere in the state.
( ) Anna Paulina Luna (REP)
This candidate did not respond to multiple requests to participate in the voter guide. Answers are based on public statements and other available information.
Incumbent U.S. Rep. who first won office in 2022, Air Force Veteran, wife and mother. Education: B.S. in biology from University of West Florida.
What are your top three priorities?
On her campaign website, Luna says she is "speaking out against illegal immigration, cancel culture, and big-tech censorship." She also has a policy page dedicated to "making Pinellas affordable again." As a U.S. Rep., Luna has been a staunch defender of former President Donald Trump, attending his criminal trial in New York City and leading the charge to censure Democratic U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff for Schiff's role in the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election.
Why are you running?
Luna says she is running to give Pinellas County independent leadership. She's touting her record of introducing legislation that she says would bring down costs for Floridians, including a bill that would cap interest on student loan payments. As one of just a handful of U.S. Representatives to have given birth in office, she's also pushed for institutional changes such as letting new mothers vote by proxy.
What would you do to address inflation and the rising costs of food and housing in Tampa Bay?
Luna sponsored a number of bills aimed at easing the pressure of rising costs. One would have allowed homeowners to pay their flood insurance premiums monthly instead of in a lump sum. Another would have eliminated the income tax on Social Security benefits. Yet another would have exempt tips from income tax a favorite proposal of Donald Trump's. None of these bills became law.
This past Congress has been historically dysfunctional. What will you do to ensure it works better?
Luna ran originally on being a change agent, and agitating for change at times has meant calling for the government to come to a screeching halt. Luna was among the Republicans who refused to back Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California in his bid for Speaker of the House, an impasse that delayed House business for days. She also voted against a bill to keep the government funded in Nov. 2023.
Do you support a national abortion ban? Why or why not? If so, at what threshold of a pregnancy?
Although she's said she is against abortion personally, Luna has dodged questions on the subject in recent months, arguing the Supreme Court's decision on Roe v. Wade has taken the issue out of the realm of the federal government. "I think it's a state's rights issue," Luna told Politico in September. "The Supreme Court said, as a federal legislator, that my opinion on the matter doesn't really matter."
What policies do you support to help reduce the number of migrants coming across the Southern border?
Luna supports a thorough crackdown on illegal immigration. She co-sponsored a bill to stop federal housing grants from going to people here illegally. Another measure would have required those hoping to enter the country to get their DNA tested if they presented as a family. Those without matching DNA would be separated. And another would have limited birthright citizenship to U.S. nationals, refugees, lawful permanent residents or non-U.S. nationals serving in the armed forces.
( ) Whitney Fox (DEM)
Former director of communications and marketing at the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority. Education: Bachelor's from the University of Central Florida.
What are your top three priorities?
1. Protect fundamental freedoms: Protect women's reproductive freedoms and health care, including access to in vitro fertilization and birth control, and fight for equality for all under the law. 2. Tackle the affordability crisis: Stand up to corporate greed, fight inflation and work to lower costs for everyday Floridians including housing, homeowners insurance and health care. 3. Strengthen Social Security and Medicare: Expand coverage and block attempts to cut these programs and fight to lower drug prices.
Why are you running?
I'm running because I'm a mother of two little girls who are growing up with fewer rights than I did. They, like all Americans, deserve a future where they'll be able to afford housing, put food on the table and take care of their families. As a Tampa Bay native that understands the hardships we face, cares about our people and has the experience working with our elected leaders at all levels of government, I am ready to fight like hell for our community.
What would you do to address inflation and the rising costs of food and housing in Tampa Bay?
I'll fight inflation and rising costs by standing up to corporate greed and price gouging. We need to stop large corporations from buying up homes, driving Tampa Bay prices and rents sky-high. I'll support first-time homebuyer assistance, encourage accessory dwelling units, modernize zoning laws and expand the Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing program. I'll also push for property tax relief and credits for affordable housing development, work to strengthen U.S. supply chains and advocate for decisive action to stabilize food prices.
This past Congress has been historically dysfunctional. What will you do to ensure it works better?
Rep. Luna is a leading cause of the dysfunction. Removing her from office is a positive step forward. Changing culture takes time, and we deserve effective leadership that delivers results, not gridlock. That's why I'll prioritize collaboration and our community's goals, rather than partisan divides. Let's move beyond labels and focus on our shared values. What are your goals? What matters most to your family? Let's have those conversations, and let's find common ground together.
Do you support a national abortion ban? Why or why not? If so, at what threshold of a pregnancy?
I strongly oppose a national abortion ban. Such a ban would be a dangerous overreach of government power, stripping women of their personal freedoms and bodily autonomy. It would put countless women's lives at risk and force others into desperate and unsafe situations. We must protect the right to make private medical decisions without government interference. Ensuring women's reproductive rights and access to safe, legal abortion services is essential for women's health and liberty.
What policies do you support to help reduce the number of migrants coming across the Southern border?
I support securing our borders with advanced technology and increased manpower to deter illegal crossings. We must crack down on human traffickers and drug cartels exploiting our broken system. At the same time, we need comprehensive immigration reform to create a fair and efficient process for legal immigration. Addressing root causes of migration, such as violence and poverty, and ensuring swift, fair adjudication of asylum claims are essential for maintaining order and security.
U.S. Representative, District 14
The 14th Congressional District, which includes parts of Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, is considered a safe seat for Democrats, and Republican Robert “Rocky” Rochford, who is vying to challenge Democratic U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, may face a tough challenge. U.S. representatives serve two-year terms, make $174,000 annually and may live anywhere in the state.
( ) Robert "Rocky" Rochford (REP)
Retired U.S. Navy Captain. Resident of Thonotosassa, outside the congressional district. Education: Master's, U.S. Naval War College; bachelor's, Massachusetts Maritime Academy.
What are your top three priorities?
1.) Border Security - Our open borders present an existential threat to our nation and to our community. 2.) National Debt/Economy - Under Bidenomics, Floridians are struggling to feed their families, while Washington continues its reckless spending. 3.) Energy Security - being dependent on foreign resources that are not friends to the U.S. in order to maintain energy demand is dangerous.
Why are you running?
Never in the history of this world has there been a nation that has been so free, so democratic, and so prosperous because of those ideals. Yet today, our nation is at great risk due to a far-left agenda. I took an oath to fight all enemies foreign and domestic and the enemy is inside the gate. So, I stand ready to fight for the values of District 14 and those of America. The poor are getting poorer and the rich are getting richer.
What would you do to address inflation and the rising costs of food and housing in Tampa Bay?
Biden's Inflation Reduction Act was absolutely the wrong response at the wrong time. Had Biden not cut off our ability to produce domestic fossil fuels and prematurely forced America into pursuing an all-green electric society, our economy would be nowhere near as bad today. The housing and rental markets are controlled by hedge funds and large corporations. Restore domestic energy independence through responsible sourcing, and return the housing market to individual buyers and sellers.
This past Congress has been historically dysfunctional. What will you do to ensure it works better?
I will begin with building a coalition of members of Congress who are Veterans [from both sides of the aisle]. Our military culture has an ingrained sense of duty and teamwork, and most importantly a focus on "service before self" ...a quality I believe is woefully absent in Washington today. The voting public doesn't want to hear or see endless finger-pointing. THEY WANT RESULTS! If you are bashing the other party instead of trying to build bridges you are part of the problem.
Do you support a national abortion ban? Why or why not? If so, at what threshold of a pregnancy?
I am personally Pro-Life. The States will each pass laws associated with abortion and in Washington I will work to provide women with options and increased support. I believe the adoption process is completely broken, and I am working with several local groups on introducing common-sense legislation to help families and eliminate fraud and wasteful fees and rules. The foster care system is also in need of repair along with Child Protective Services.
What policies do you support to help reduce the number of migrants coming across the Southern border?
Today we have millions of unvetted aliens who are here illegally, which poses a tremendous National security threat. I believe the laws that are in place need revision and I have vowed to take the lead; however, the administration's willful negligence in the enforcement of the laws only complicates those efforts. We must restore control at the border and work to vet those who are here. It is imperative to address the root cause of the migration. We cannot allow socialism to take root in the U.S.
( ) Kathy Castor (DEM)
U.S. representative from Tampa since 2006, former Hillsborough County commissioner. Education: Chamberlain High School, bachelor's from Emory University, law degree from Florida State University.
What are your top three priorities?
Health care. I am a champion for quality, affordable health care, strengthening Medicare and ensuring access to contraceptives and reproductive care. Lowering costs. I helped pass the $35/month cap on insulin in Medicare and am working to extend savings to all. I led the charge for energy efficiency discounts and lower electric bills. Environment. Floridians can count on me to protect our bays and beaches, and stand up to polluters. I lead on climate and sustainability - with results.
Why are you running?
I am running to lower costs, grow the middle class, build a safer Tampa Bay area and protect women's reproductive freedom. I take great pride in representing my Hometown, serving as their advocate, and standing up every day for the families, small businesses and veterans who make up our wonderful community.
What would you do to address inflation and the rising costs of food and housing in Tampa Bay?
I have worked to lower costs for working families in the area of health care, energy, utilities, transportation, food and housing through my leadership on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act. I will continue my work and, also, work with the Harris administration and their policies to grow affordable housing, cut taxes for the middle class, and reduce grocery costs by taking on price gouging and more.
This past Congress has been historically dysfunctional. What will you do to ensure it works better?
Regardless of the extreme MAGA dysfunction, I am always laser focused on finding solutions to lower costs and deliver for veterans, MacDill AFB, USF, Moffitt Cancer Center, Port Tampa Bay, Tampa airports, public schools and the small business owners that define and lift our area. I go to Washington to fight every day for my Hometown - not make headlines or viral moments. My time is spent working in a bipartisan way to make the lives of my neighbors less expensive, healthier, and safer.
Do you support a national abortion ban? Why or why not? If so, at what threshold of a pregnancy?
I strongly oppose a national abortion ban like the one proposed in Trump's far-right Project 2025 and the 6-week ban forced on Floridians by Gov. DeSantis. I am a cosponsor of the Women's Health Protection Act that would codify Roe v. Wade, and I strongly support Amendment 4 for Reproductive Freedom. Personal health decisions should be made between a patient and doctor, not politicians. I also advocated for no cost contraceptives to be included in Affordable Care Act health plans.
What policies do you support to help reduce the number of migrants coming across the Southern border?
I am a staunch advocate for comprehensive immigration reform that would provide a tough but fair pathway to citizenship and increase border security. I support the tough bipartisan border bill that was developed by Senator Lankford, R-OK, before it was blocked by Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans for political gain. I support a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and reforms so that U.S. military service members have a streamlined pathway to citizenship.
U.S. Representative, District 15
Republican Rep. Laurel Lee faced a call earlier this year from former President Donald Trump for a “MAGA” candidate to challenge her for the District 15 seat, which covers parts of Hillsborough, Pasco and Polk counties. Lee now faces Hillsborough County Commissioner Pat Kemp, a Democrat, in the general. U.S. representatives serve two-year terms, make $174,000 annually and may live anywhere in the state.
( ) Laurel Lee (REP)
Former Florida secretary of state, longtime Hillsborough resident. Education: Bachelor's from UF, law degree from UF College of Law.
What are your top three priorities?
My top three priorities include inflation and the economy, national security and law and order, including securing our borders.
Why are you running?
I'm running for reelection because I care about our country and our local Congressional District 15 community, and I want to continue to be a conservative voice for our district. I want to ensure that our families can afford gas and groceries; I want to fight to make sure parents and the decisions that they make for their children are respected and I want to put a stop to the crisis at our southern border that is devastating communities across the nation.
What would you do to address inflation and the rising costs of food and housing in Tampa Bay?
Because of reckless spending in Washington, we're continuing to see historic inflation. I've worked with fellow Republicans to tackle this and rein in spending, something I'll continue to address if reelected. We need to find solutions to rein in government overreach and inflationary spending such as cutting wasteful spending, lowering taxes, balancing the budget and reviving the Keystone Pipeline so hardworking Americans aren't paying the price of Washington's irresponsible fiscal actions.
This past Congress has been historically dysfunctional. What will you do to ensure it works better?
Republicans need a larger majority. Regardless of which party is in the majority, when the margin is only a few members, it requires near unanimity to advance an agenda, and it creates a scenario where only a few members can hold the entire caucus hostage. Hopefully, we can return with a larger majority and start to advance policies that can get our economy back on track. Where possible, I have and will continue to work across the aisle on issues that benefit our local community and our state.
Do you support a national abortion ban? Why or why not? If so, at what threshold of a pregnancy?
As a mom, my feelings against abortion are strong. As a lawyer, my conservative views on states' rights are also strong. I believe the Supreme Court correctly overturned Roe v. Wade, sending this decision back to the states, which are considering and passing legislation reflective of their voters. While the federal government does have a role to play, what that role is continues to evolve. I look forward to this debate as we attempt to advance the best policy as was intended by our Constitution.
What policies do you support to help reduce the number of migrants coming across the Southern border?
As part of the Homeland Security Committee, I, along with Republican colleagues, have been leading the fight to stop this crisis. I supported a comprehensive border package, which included stopping drug cartels and human traffickers, as well as supporting our Customs and Border Patrol Agents. I also support finishing the border wall and reinstating border policies like Remain in Mexico, as well as deporting illegal immigrants who enter the country unlawfully.
( ) Patricia "Pat" Kemp (DEM)
Hillsborough commissioner, lawyer and longtime advocate for transportation and environmental issues. Education: Bachelor's in journalism, Boston University; law degree, Stetson University College of Law.
What are your top three priorities?
1. Restore reproductive freedom; 2. Expand health care access to strengthen Social Security and Medicare; 3. Protect our environment and lower energy costs.
Why are you running?
I chose to run because I am tired of the extremism and dysfunction in Congress. I am committed to restoring reproductive freedom; strengthening Social Security and Medicare; expanding health care access and reducing prescription drug costs; lowering energy and housing costs and protecting our environment.
What would you do to address inflation and the rising costs of food and housing in Tampa Bay?
The cost of living is a complex issue. We have to look at all the causes, including runaway corporate profits and the Trump tax cuts for billionaires. Solutions include expanding health care access, building workforce housing, and lowering energy costs and the cost of prescription drugs.
This past Congress has been historically dysfunctional. What will you do to ensure it works better?
I chose to run because of the extremism and dysfunction in Congress. One way to ensure that Congress works better is to elect representatives who will not pursue baseless impeachments to score partisan political points. In addition, it is important to be willing to hold wrongdoers in Congress accountable, regardless of their party affiliation, and to work across the aisle to improve the lives of Americans.
Do you support a national abortion ban? Why or why not? If so, at what threshold of a pregnancy?
Absolutely not. A national abortion ban would be deadly for women and girls. It puts doctors, hospitals and patients at risk. A national ban would severely limit the ability to treat dangerous reproductive and pregnancy conditions and would also limit infertility treatment for families struggling to have children. Abortion bans at the state level have already caused maternity wards to be closed and doctors to refuse to practice obstetrics in those states.
What policies do you support to help reduce the number of migrants coming across the Southern border?
Impeaching the secretary of Homeland Security is the wrong approach. Instead, there needs to be a serious bipartisan effort to pass legislation. Unfortunately, this effort has been blocked by former President Donald Trump and the Republicans in Congress. The United States needs to work with Mexico to end this deadly cross-border traffic of illegal U.S. guns and Mexican fentanyl.
U.S. Representative, District 16
Incumbent Republican Rep. Vern Buchanan faces Democrat Jan Schneider for the 16th Congressional District seat, which includes southern Hillsborough and all of Manatee County. U.S. representatives serve two-year terms, make $174,000 annually and may live anywhere in the state.
( ) Vern Buchanan (REP)
Has served in Congress since 2007; Resident of Sarasota County in Longboat Key, outside the district. Education: M.B.A., University of Detroit; bachelor's, Cleary University.
What are your top three priorities?
Reduce inflation. Protect Medicare and Social Security. Support law enforcement and our nation's great veterans while cracking down on illegal immigration.
Why are you running?
The failed policies of the Biden Administration have set our country back like never before. We need conservative lawmakers who will work to secure the border, reduce inflation, and restore the American Dream. It is an honor and a privilege to represent the men and women of Manatee and Hillsborough Counties. I will never stop working for the people of Southwest Florida.
What would you do to address inflation and the rising costs of food and housing in Tampa Bay?
The surge in deficit spending and the failed policies of Pres. Biden have induced record levels of inflation. Less spending, low taxes and limited government are the principles that should guide Washington.
This past Congress has been historically dysfunctional. What will you do to ensure it works better?
Since I became a member of Congress, I have passed 33 bills into law under four different presidents legislation to help our veterans, our children and protect Medicare and Social Security. I will work with anyone if it means producing results for our region.
Do you support a national abortion ban? Why or why not? If so, at what threshold of a pregnancy?
As a pro-life Republican, I believe legislation regarding abortion should be left to the states consistent with the Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade.
What policies do you support to help reduce the number of migrants coming across the Southern border?
We need to secure the border, enforce the rule of law and respect the Constitution. That's why I've received A+ marks from Numbers USA congressional scorecard for my votes to secure our borders, reject amnesty, strengthen interior enforcement and reduce the visa lottery.
( ) Jan Schneider (DEM)
Attorney, small business owner, author. Provides free legal help to public housing residents. Resident of Sarasota, outside the district. Education: PhD and master's, Yale University; J.D., Yale Law School; master's, Columbia University.
What are your top three priorities?
Restore reproductive freedom: set nationwide abortion standards, eliminate Hyde Amendment, ban restraints on interstate travel for abortions, fund women's and children's healthcare. Support exceptional proportion of seniors in district: fight to sustain Medicare, Veterans Health Administration, Social Security; oppose benefits cuts, vouchers, means testing. Preserve democratic republic: oppose insurrections, voter suppression, gerrymandering, election lies; support campaign finance reform
Why are you running?
If the opposite of "con" is "pro," is Congress the opposite of progress? That joke is not funny now. I am motivated by passion for change. Politically, I believe in representative democracy. Congress is mired in partisanship, intolerance and the "big lie." Professionally, I devote copious time to environmental protection, equality and health issues. I want to do more. Personally, people without offspring can bemoan that loss. Or work to improve the future for others' children and grandchildren.
What would you do to address inflation and the rising costs of food and housing in Tampa Bay?
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 was good but not enough. In Tampa Bay, housing largely drives inflation. While unable to reduce interest rates, Congress can address prohibitive home insurance premiums. Several pending bills would lower reinsurance costs that account for half of premiums. On food, some members of Congress urge renewed enforcement of the Robinson-Patman Act. Meanwhile, the farm bill pushed by House Republicans, reducing low-income food assistance, is backwards.
This past Congress has been historically dysfunctional. What will you do to ensure it works better?
We are doing our utmost not only to win FL16, but also to prevent Donald Trump recapturing the presidency. Thriving on chaos, Trump is the puppeteer behind extreme dysfunction in Congress. Money, maps and members also contribute. Striking down contribution limits in Citizens United, the Supreme Court aggravated vicious concentrations of wealth and political power. Gerrymandering encourages putting party before country and tends to favor extreme candidates. And vote out sycophants and bigots.
Do you support a national abortion ban? Why or why not? If so, at what threshold of a pregnancy?
No. Our campaign supports reproductive freedom and codifying Roe v. Wade standards into federal law. Congress should also eliminate the Hyde Amendment, ban interference by states with interstate travel for abortions, confirm a right to contraception and authorize dispensing of abortion medications mifepristone and misoprostol by mail. Conversely, reproductive freedom should include choosing to bear a healthy baby. Congress should also fund healthcare programs for pregnant women and children.
What policies do you support to help reduce the number of migrants coming across the Southern border?
The 2024 Bipartisan Border Bill deserved support. Donald Trump, however, killed it as not "perfect on the border" to preserve an election issue. A border bill needs: adequate enforcement funding, a better process for asylum claims, strong sanctions against drug and human trafficking and humane treatment of migrants. It should also cover a path to citizenship for DREAMers and DACA children, Temporary Protected Status for those afflicted by disasters and permanent status for former Afghan allies.
State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit
The state attorney for the 13th Judicial Circuit serves a four-year term and oversees an office that prosecutes all felony and misdemeanor crimes in Hillsborough County. The job pays $212,562 annually.
( ) Suzy Lopez (REP)
Hillsborough state attorney appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, former county judge, longtime prosecutor. Education: Bachelor's, Middlebury College; law degree, Suffolk University Law School.
What are your top three priorities?
My highest priorities are holding criminals accountable, supporting law enforcement's efforts to protect us and fighting for justice for victims and their families. I will follow the law, seek tough justice and work to make Hillsborough safer.
Why are you running?
I am running for state attorney to keep Hillsborough County safer. I am the only candidate endorsed and trusted by Sheriff Chad Chronister and law enforcement to put criminals behind bars, follow the law, back the blue and get justice for crime victims. I am a career prosecutor, not a politician. As state attorney, I will always put public safety first.
How do you view the role of state attorney in relation to local law enforcement?
The state attorney must stand with law enforcement and help our brave men and women in uniform keep criminals off the streets. As state attorney, I had to rebuild relationships with law enforcement that Andrew Warren destroyed. That is why I am endorsed by Sheriff Chronister and law enforcement. I will always put public safety first, not liberal ideology. I will always follow the law and hold offenders accountable, not experiment with the law and second-guess law enforcement.
What is one thing you would do differently if elected?
I will put public safety first, not my political career or liberal ideology. Unlike Andrew Warren, I will follow the law instead of experimenting with it. I will put criminals behind bars instead of turning a blind eye to crime. I will support the men and women of law enforcement instead of undermining them.
What can you do to ensure the state attorney's office retains experienced and skilled lawyers?
We must follow the law, hold offenders accountable and seek justice for victims. Andrew Warren ruined the morale in the State Attorney's Office because he put his liberal ideology and political ambition ahead of public safety. I restored morale and got the State Attorney's Office back to its core mission of making Hillsborough safer. Today, we are fully staffed, more visible in the community, giving a voice to victims and their families and helping troubled youth get back on the right path.
( ) Andrew H. Warren (DEM)
Former Hillsborough state attorney suspended by Gov. DeSantis, former federal prosecutor. Education: Law degree, Columbia University Law School; bachelor's, Brandeis University.
What are your top three priorities?
Increase public safety: In my 6 years in office, crime went down 32%, making Hillsborough the safest large county in Florida. Violent crime has increased in my absence, and we must reverse that trend to make our neighborhoods safer. Fight for victims: I'll never stop seeking justice for victims. I supported a constitutional amendment, disarmed domestic abusers to protect survivors and fought for victims when others gave up. Improve the system by making it more effective, fair and efficient.
Why are you running?
For the past two years, I've been fighting for free speech, democracy, the rule of lawvalues we all cherish. On the cusp of winning that fight, I'm excited to go back to fighting for the people of Hillsborough Countyfor parents like me trying to keep our children safe, victims and every family in our community. My wife and daughters live here; there's nothing more important than public safety. I'll continue the tremendous success we had making our community safer and our system better.
How do you view the role of state attorney in relation to local law enforcement?
The state attorney should be a strong, independent partner to law enforcement. I'm proud of the productive partnership my office had with law enforcement. We reduced crime by 32% by aggressively prosecuting violent criminals, predators, drug dealers and repeat offenders while reducing crime through prevention and rehabilitationpolicies supported by law enforcement. A state attorney should also be an honest partner, willing to have tough conversations, not a weak rubber stamp.
What can you do to ensure the state attorney's office retains experienced and skilled lawyers?
My absence has hurt morale within the office, especially because the governor appointed as acting state attorney someone who had been passed over for promotion numerous times, including under my predecessor. The office has since lost several talented prosecutors including the leaders in the Special Victims Unit that prosecutes sexual assaults and crimes against children. My return would boost morale, helping to retain skilled prosecutors and attracting talent from around the state.
What is one thing you would do differently if elected?
I'd serve the interests of the people of Hillsborough by enacting policies to make our neighborhoods safer and standing up for what is right. I'd continue my proven track record of increasing public safety through aggressive prosecution balanced with prevention and rehabilitation. I'd be a strong, independent partner with law enforcement, not a weak rubber stamp. And I'd not be afraid to speak out against bad criminal justice policy that makes us less safe or violates our rights.
State Senator, District 11
The 40 members of the Florida Senate serve four-year terms and make $29,697 per year. Senators must live in the district they serve. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting a balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Blaise Ingoglia (REP)
This candidate did not respond to multiple requests to participate in the voter guide. Answers are based on public statements and other available information.
State senator since 2022, former state representative, homebuilder. Education: Took courses at Queens College and Brooklyn College.
What are your top three priorities?
The candidate declined to participate in this survey. On his website, he cites stopping illegal immigration, securing the state's elections and cutting government regulations as among his accomplishments.
Why are you running?
The candidate declined to participate in this survey. He touts being endorsed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, and his website quotes him as "DeSantis' conservative pitbull in the Florida Senate." As one of the more conservative and bombastic members of the Senate, Ingoglia made headlines this year for proposing legislation that would do away with most mail-in voting. His website says he's a leader on "protecting parental rights in education and standing up to the Woke Mob."
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
The candidate did not participate in this survey. He voted with the majority of lawmakers in recent years to make it harder to sue insurance companies, which has been the state's primary response to the insurance crisis. Neither his campaign website nor X social media account mention insurance.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
The candidate did not participate in this survey. He doesn't appear to have weighed in on the issue. In 2019, he voted to allow medical marijuana patients to smoke the products.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
The candidate did not participate in this survey. The candidate voted for the six-week abortion law. In September, he pledged $25,000 to defeat Amendment 4, which would overturn that law.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
The candidate did not participate in this survey. His website does not mention cost of living. During the 2024 legislative session, however, he spoke out against a bill that would allow lenders to charge higher interest rates on consumer loans, calling it "just a money grab." DeSantis signed the bill into law.
( ) Marilyn Holleran (DEM)
Retired foreign service officer, local and state Democratic Party volunteer. Education: Bachelor's in biology from Barnard College; master's in strategic studies from U.S. Army War College.
What are your top three priorities?
The Legislature must work on the affordability issue here in Florida. This includes reining in the homeowners insurers, as well as the over-abundance of corporate-owned rental properties. The state has no business regulating women's health care, and the six-week abortion ban has got to go. The climate crisis is real, not a hoax, and Florida is ground zero for rising sea level, more intense and more rapidly intensifying storms and extreme heat.
Why are you running?
My opponent seems to be focused on pointless culture wars rather than issues which the citizens of Florida care about. I firmly believe that Floridians deserve a Legislature that works for them rather than supporting dog-whistle issues aimed at getting an incumbent reelected. The Republicans have a supermajority in the House and Senate so that it is not possible to override a veto; more Democrats would help undo this.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
The insurance crisis is not over and will not be over until the state drops the hammer on the insurance industry here. One way is to not allow insurance companies to write any other kind of insurance (motor vehicles, boats) in Florida unless they also write homeowners insurance. And another thing that needs to happen is to stop developing waterfront property, which will be the first to go during storms and as sea level rises.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
Sell recreational marijuana at existing liquor stores, which are already licensed to sell alcohol. Treat marijuana like liquor. Do we limit the amount of scotch someone can purchase at one time from the local liquor store?
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
Absolutely not! I believe that the choice to have an abortion is not one that a woman makes lightly, and should be made by the woman, her family, her medical professional and perhaps her faith. The government of the state of Florida has nothing to do with this choice. The supreme irony here is when the governor talks about government overreach because we had to wear masks during the COVID pandemic, and now he has put the state Legislature in every uterus in the state.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
We need to stop enacting legislation written by developers, utilities and the insurance industry. We need to work on corporate price gouging.
State Senator, District 21
The 40 members of the Florida Senate serve four-year terms and make $29,697 per year. Senators must live in the district they serve. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting a balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Ed Hooper (REP)
Florida state senator seeking third and final term, retired Clearwater Fire Department firefighter. Education: St. Petersburg College, studied fire science and emergency medicine, did not finish degree.
What are your top three priorities?
Property insurance; transportation solutions all forms; water quality and availability
Why are you running?
Running to continue working to make Florida and our local community the best and safest place to live, work and play.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I voted for and support this legislation.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
Continue working on reducing property, auto and flood insurance costs. Continuing to reduce taxes where ever possible. Continue to stop any unscrupulous actors from harming our citizens.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
(The insurance crisis) is not close to being over. With eight new companies entering the market recently, premiums have started to slowly moderate. A less than predicted hurricane season would very much help all of us.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
[Editor's note: Hooper did not answer this question but later said in an interview that if voters approve the amendment, it would be up to the Department of Health to put forward rules. He said he's not sure the Legislature would have a role.]
( ) Doris H. Carroll (DEM)
Pasco County Democratic volunteer, former nurse and union president in Illinois. Education: University of Illinois Chicago, bachelor's of science.
What are your top three priorities?
1. Housing and insurance affordability: Explore nationwide best practices, consider upzoning and increasing accessory dwelling units. 2. Healthcare access: Codify abortion Amendment 4 in the Florida Constitution. Accept federal dollars for the children's lunch and adult food program and Medicaid. 3. Environmental sustainability: Protect coastal environments, harness more solar energy, water conservation, efficient irrigation systems and restoration of wetlands. Sustainable agriculture practices.
Why are you running?
I am running for this office because I feel a responsible citizen must do something. The Republican Legislature impact for three decades has been catastrophic: battling culture wars. Doing little to tackle rising costs of housing and insurance. Removing climate change from Florida statutes. Lack of environmental sustainability. Legislating women's reproductive health. Preempting local authorities to protect outdoor workers. Restricting freedom of speech and LGBTQ+ rights. This is not freedom.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
No. While insurers reported strong profits last year, homeowners continue to face unreasonably high premiums. The core issue lies in politics elected officials, who receive large donations from insurance executives, are not addressing the root causes, such as climate change, increasing risk and premiums. We need greater transparency in campaign finance and stronger regulations focused on reducing climate risks. Focus on environmental sustainability and hold elected officials accountable.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
I would recommend reviewing other states' guidelines, like Illinois's and Colorado's.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
Evidence-based research consistently contradicts the pro-life movement, which is not science-based or equitable, with legislators consistently restricting women's and children's basic human rights. Florida eroded science with widely disputed and dangerous beliefs and led to increased COVID-19 deaths. The Middle Ages "science" based on religion, astrology and alchemy is what we are seeing in Florida. Scientists need to decide medical facts, not legislators or religion.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
The increased cost of living is related to inflation, stagnant wages, increased housing costs, utilities, groceries, transportation, insurance and population growth. There's no state income tax, which benefits the wealthy, a right-to-work state, which benefits corporations, and grocery chain mergers, which will result in increased consumer costs. A lack of affordable housing and limited public access to transportation can lead to increased homelessness in Florida. This is a multifactorial issue.
State Senator, District 23
The 40 members of the Florida Senate serve four-year terms and make $29,697 per year. Senators must live in the district they serve. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting a balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Danny Burgess (REP)
State senator since 2020, former state representative and major in the U.S. Army Reserve. Education: Bachelor's from USF; law degree from Barry University School of Law; Zephyrhills High School.
What are your top three priorities?
Making Florida affordable, honoring our veterans and active duty military, strengthening Florida's economy and continuing to make our great state the best place to live, work and raise a family.
Why are you running?
I've spent my time in the Florida Senate helping build bridges to deliver reforms to the Department of Veterans' Affairs, stood shoulder-to-shoulder to strengthen public safety, and have worked with both parties to pass challenging issues like meaningful insurance reform. I have more fight in me to continue the work and get results for my constituents and all Floridians. I do this for my family and my community to leave something better than we inherited.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
The crisis is not yet over, but there are signs that we are turning a corner. We have been working diligently to address this issue, such as addressing litigation and cracking down on bad actors in the market. It will likely take some time for our reforms to fully bear fruit. Anyone promising an immediate fix doesn't understand the issue. Auto insurance reform is an area that I also want to address going forward.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
I wish to strongly urge all Floridians to reject Amendment 3 and vote no to recreational marijuana. We are a family-friendly state anchored in tourism; this will create more problems than it purports to solve. Don't believe me just look to other states across the country. I will be looking to law enforcement for ways to tackle this problem should it pass, ensuring we address serious issues like impaired driving.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I do, and while I understand that there are passionate opinions on both sides of this argument and I don't make a judgment on those who disagree with me, I do believe life begins at conception and that life has a constitutional right to protections. I get why there are strong opinions on this topic, yet I wholeheartedly believe that Amendment 4 is incredibly dangerous, and that Floridians will reject it for its extreme nature.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
We've been forward-thinking in our tax policy that has helped deliver billions of dollars in relief, but we still have work to do on car and home insurance. We need to root out uninsured motorists who drive the cost of insurance up for all Florida drivers and ensure there is adequate coverage to cover safe and responsible drivers.
( ) Ben Braver (DEM)
Teacher and former student organizer and activist. Education: Bachelor's in economics from USF, King High School.
What are your top three priorities?
Fund our schools: Bring the $4.2 billion diverted to private schools back to hire the 5,000 missing teachers, raise teacher salaries, and eliminate school meal debt. Create a Florida Department. of Labor: Make companies pay their employees the money they earn, because right now Florida has the highest rate of minimum wage theft in the nation. Plan for our future: Instead of maximizing short term growth without planning for its long term effects, I will grow with intelligent infrastructure investment.
Why are you running?
When I started teaching public school, I found my students using antiquated equipment and worrying about their next meal. If our government actually worked, and worked for us, our children's well-being and education would be a top priority, not an afterthought. I believe in our government's ability and obligation to serve its citizens, and I want my students to share that belief. When Florida invests in our schools, strengthens our rights, and supports local entrepreneurs, we all prosper.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
No Floridian would say our insurance crisis is over. By selling discounted reinsurance (insurance for the insurance companies) we the taxpayers are paying for our insurance twice. I will re-invest that private subsidization into our public option, directly benefitting Florida's families. I will not allow unsafe and expensive homes to be built and covered in unsafe and expensive areas. I will bolster our building codes and plan our towns with climate change in mind.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
Recreational marijuana products should be sold by licensed vendors and taxed heavily, similar to products containing alcohol. Those tax dollars could go toward funding our schools or substance abuse recovery programs. People who would use marijuana recreationally already do. Instead of wasting tax dollars on police enforcement of a victimless crime, this initiative provides funds to combat crimes that do hurt people.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I vehemently oppose the unscientific, dangerous six-week abortion ban. Reproductive healthcare rights and bodily autonomy are non-negotiable. You should not be obligated to give your body to anyone, the government or otherwise. Second, medical regulation based on non-experts' moral codes endangers the lives of countless Floridians. Current law prevents medical professionals from delivering appropriate care to their patients. And we know abortion bans only stop safe abortions.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
Present price surges aren't naturally occurring inflation, but price gouging. We know that because profits are at an all-time high. I will implement a Department of Labor to ensure a genuinely free market and return stolen wages. I will transition away from our reverse-Robinhood tax code that increases inequality. I will return money taken from funds set aside to build affordable housing, which will also create 22,000 jobs.
State Representative, District 53
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Jeff Holcomb (REP)
This candidate did not respond to multiple requests to participate in the voter guide. Answers are based on public statements and other available information.
Incumbent from Spring Hill, U.S. Navy Reserve officer and former Hernando County commissioner. Education: Bachelor's in economics, University of Maryland, Baltimore County; master's with honors in intelligence studies, American Military University.
What are your top three priorities?
The campaign declined to participate in this survey. Holcomb's campaign website lists his priorities as protecting the Second Amendment, free speech and safety and security of Floridians, creating jobs, and fighting illegal immigration. Holcomb's platform also states he supports small business, critical infrastructure in Hernando and Pasco counties and Gov. Ron DeSantis' "Florida 1st Agenda."
Why are you running?
In a 2023 profile published in the Hernando Sun, Holcomb said, "After one session in the Florida House, I (am) extremely proud to have stood up to the Democrats by protecting our kids against school indoctrination, giving parents school choice and gender transition practices."
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
Holcomb voted yes on a bill passed during the December 2022 special session which removed the requirement that insurance companies pay attorneys' fees of homeowners who sue, and win, over a claim. Last year, Holcomb voted yes on a bill passed that extended those protections to insurers and shielded all insurance companies from having to pay attorneys' fees. Former President Donald Trump called the law a "bailout" for insurance companies.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
A legislative aide told the Tampa Bay Times Holcomb "is not interested at this time" in participating in the survey. Holcomb has made no clear public statement on marijuana legalization.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
Holcomb voted yes on the state's six-week abortion bill passed into law last year. When the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022, Holcomb shared a Fox News article about the court's decision on Facebook. "I applaud the Supreme Court for properly interpreting the Constitution. This is a victory for state's rights and millions of unborn lives. Life Wins!" he wrote in a post.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
On May 21, 2022, Holcomb posted on Facebook: "Are you as sick of these high gas prices as I am? I pledge to support legislation while in the Florida House to provide relief from these skyrocketing prices, including a further suspension of the gas tax." Later that year, lawmakers approved a plan to temporarily suspend the gas tax for the month of October.
( ) Keith G. Laufenberg (DEM)
Former professional boxer, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Christian. Education: Associate's, Broward College.
What are your top three priorities?
Health care: I will get it in the state of Florida, it is better than even military health care. Climate change: Our long lost, dizzy-headed governor, Ron DeSenseless, along with the majority of the Republican Party, has decimated the majority of Florida's environmental regulations. Guns: Sad to say, but today, in 2024, it is much worse than any other time in history because, we, the American people, have more guns than people in any other country.
Why are you running?
I'm running to bring the Lord and Savior into everywhere I speak, to your heart and your soul so that you will tell only and the eye-opening things always spoken to us, spoke to us, singling so many of us out, while embracing us, as we couldn't hide from Him.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
Insurance? Remember, many of Jesus' teachings showed again and again that the root of all evil was, is and always will be money! God will save you without money.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
Remember the root of all evil is problematic, very problematic if it is a drug, and we must pass any and all laws by asking for Jesus' help and the government should provide addicts a certain amount of any non-addictive drugs, and go from there. May God's cry for peace, love and mercy go with us all! And, be with us all, forevermore.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I do not support killing any human being, much less an unborn child, which will be, 90% of them, adopted.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
Find them a decent-paying job and create a system which does not work against poor people, but the very opposite, because every human being, including children, deserve a chance to live in a Christian family loving them, as they do what their God will ask them to, adopt a child if you can and love him/her to death do you part.
State Representative, District 54
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Randy Maggard (REP)
Chairman of the Republican Party of Pasco County and chair of the Southwest Water Management District. Education: Pasco-Hernando State College, associate of arts.
What are your top three priorities?
Reducing the cost of living, protecting citizens from illegal immigration, and continuing to keep our state's economy strong by maintaining high quality schools, protecting our environment, and creating a regulatory environment that fosters job growth.
Why are you running?
I'm running for the Florida House of Representatives because I care about the district I represent and its future. As a lifelong resident of Pasco County, I want our residents to enjoy a high quality of life and help address resident concerns as Pasco continues to grow. I'm dedicated to helping small businesses thrive, making the cost of living more affordable, and preparing our students for success.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
No, we must continue to find solutions that will lead to more affordable insurance rates. I voted for our property insurance reforms that are already leading to more competition and stabilized rates. We need to make sure these reforms actually lead to rates coming down. We must also continue working to reduce auto insurance rates, which are also among the highest in the nation.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
First, I don't support Amendment 3. If it were to pass, the Legislature must begin by following the provisions of the constitutional amendment. We must prevent recreational use in public spaces and ensure the sale of recreational marijuana is regulated to the fullest extent allowed under the constitutional amendment should it become law.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I voted for Florida's pro-life law because it protects the unborn while, and I care deeply about protecting those who cannot protect themselves. The law also includes important exceptions for the life and health of the mother.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
We must continue to lower taxes and drive down insurance costs. In the last two years, I voted for over $3 billion in tax relief and for insurance reforms that will help stabilize our market for ratepayers. I also voted for pay raises for teachers, law enforcement, and state employees.
( ) Karl Cieslak (DEM)
Former human resources manager for The Epicurean hotel in Tampa and The Fenway Hotel in Dunedin. Education: Columbus State Community College, associate of arts; Everglades University, bachelor's degree in hospitality and administration/management, masters in business administration.
What are your top three priorities?
Lowering homeowners and auto insurance premiums, advocating for quality education and better support for public schools, defending women's reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ rights.
Why are you running?
I'm running to ensure that all Floridians have the freedom to be healthy, prosperous, and safe. After losing my mother, I've committed to fighting for those who feel voiceless and need representation.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
The insurance crisis is far from over. I will push for increased oversight of insurance companies, introduce consumer protections, and seek solutions that lower rates while ensuring fair access to coverage.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
I support regulating recreational marijuana like alcohol, ensuring safety and taxation. I would advocate for its use to be age-restricted and for the taxes to be reinvested into education and healthcare programs.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I oppose Florida's six-week abortion law. It strips away women's reproductive freedom. I support codifying Roe v. Wade into state law to ensure women retain the right to make decisions about their own bodies.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
I will address skyrocketing insurance premiums by supporting legislation that holds insurance companies accountable and protects consumers. Additionally, I will push for affordable housing and energy reform.
State Representative, District 55
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Kevin M. Steele (REP)
This candidate did not respond to multiple requests to participate in the voter guide. Answers are based on public statements and other available information.
Trump-endorsed state House representative; founder of DataLink Software, a health technology company. Education: Candidate's website says he has a business management degree from USF.
What are your top three priorities?
The campaign did not participate in this survey. Steele's campaign website describes him as a "conservative champion." The website does not outline his priorities for a second term. In a Bay News 9 interview in April, the incumbent said his priority for the remaining months of his current term was cleaning up Medicaid to facilitate better care and lower costs.
Why are you running?
The campaign did not participate in this survey. Steele's website does not state why he is running for office this time. However, in an April interview with Bay News 9, Steele said DeSantis' experiences as a governor motivated his original run for election.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
The campaign did not participate in this survey. Steele's website does not include a stance on the insurance crisis. However, in an interview with Florida Politics, he expressed concern over insurance companies continuing to limit coverage, leading customers to require additional policies and increasing their financial burden.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
The campaign did not participate in this survey. Steele's campaign website does not include a stance on marijuana.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
The campaign did not participate in this survey. In 2023, Steele voted for the six-week abortion bill in the Legislature.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
The campaign did not participate in this survey. In a Facebook post, Steele wrote he was committed to fiscal responsibility and responsible governance in Florida, stating his support for tax relief, a reduction in state debt and a balanced budget.
( ) Judy Freiberg (DEM)
Retired UAW Legal Services Plan attorney, provided legal support for low-income and working people. Education: Bachelor's, Indiana University; master's, Washington University; law degree, St. Louis University.
What are your top three priorities?
1 Climate change: build resiliency, transition away from greenhouse gas emissions 2. Restore access to abortion care for Floridians 3. Bring down the cost of living for Floridians.
Why are you running?
In a democracy, voters deserve a choice on the ballot. I live in Collier. I am running in Pasco to ensure voters have that choice. Elect me, we'll be neighbors. We must have campaign finance reform to end the control real estate, agriculture, insurance and public utility companies have and thus tackle over-development, the insurance crisis, climate change, gun safety, etc. End the culture wars, misinformation and divisive rhetoric used to distract Floridians from a failure to address our issues.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
Build coastal resiliency to reduce the cost of climate disasters; utilize the Florida Disaster Fund to supplement reinsurance for insurance firms and require that they pass resulting savings to consumers; strengthen the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation so that it regulates insurers; ensure companies pay sufficiently for covered matters pursuant to the contract. Also, repeal the laws recently enacted that make it too costly for consumers to enforce the insurance contract.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
I support this amendment because people who use marijuana should not become criminals, which affects their lives in too many ways. However, people can become addicted, so I also support regulating the strength of what is produced and sold.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
No. I support Amendment 4, on the ballot in November. I believe these decisions should remain with the woman, her family and her physician.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
Reducing the cost of homeowner's insurance will make housing more affordable. Enact progressive taxation, not regressive: Florida relies on use taxes, which means that working people pay a higher percentage of their income for taxes than higher income people. Expand Medicaid in Florida, so that working people, and the families of veterans, can obtain coverage.
State Representative, District 56
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Brad Yeager (REP)
This candidate did not respond to multiple requests to participate in the voter guide. Answers are based on public statements and other available information.
District 56 representative since 2022 and business owner. Education: Bachelor's in political science, Edison State Community College; Charlotte High School, Punta Gorda.
What are your top three priorities?
The campaign declined to participate in this survey. Yeager's campaign website lists some of his priorities, including keeping taxes low for all Floridans, standing with law enforcement and first responders, protecting the integrity of elections, empowering parents to choose the education that's right for their kids, supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses in Pasco County and standing up for Second Amendment and constitutional rights.
Why are you running?
Yeager is running for another term as a house representative for District 56. In the Florida House of Representatives, Yeager is the vice chair of the regulatory reform and economic development subcommittee. He also serves on several other subcommittees, including education quality and infrastructure and tourism appropriations. Yeager's campaign website says he wants to secure the border and "stop the Biden power grab."
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
Yeager's campaign website states that he is "100% pro-life." Yeager voted yes to Florida's six-week abortion law on April 13, 2023. The same day, he tweeted, "I am proud to have cast my vote to protect unborn babies in Florida! ."
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
Yeager's campaign website states he wants to "bring good careers to Pasco County by supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses" and "keep taxes low for all Floridians."
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
Yeager's campaign website does not include a stance on insurance. In 2022, he told the Times: "We need to create a competitive marketplace that will invite more companies to write insurance in Florida, allowing Floridians more competitive choices when it comes to insurance."
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
Yeager's campaign website does not include a stance on recreational marijuana. In March, Yeager abstained from voting on a bill that would have banned certain hemp products; the bill passed but was vetoed by Gov. Ron DeSantis.
( ) William "Willie" Pura (DEM)
Served over 20 years as assistant public defender, 6th Circuit of Florida. Education: Harvard University, bachelor of arts; Washington and Lee Law School, juris doctor degree.
What are your top three priorities?
Ensuring affordable housing for all Floridians by capping rate increases for homeowner's insurance, utilities, and rental properties; providing comprehensive disaster relief by subsidizing home improvements and halting new development in high-risk areas; making good on our state Constitution's guarantee of quality public education for all children by preventing the depletion of funding to sponsor homeschooling and charter schools.
Why are you running?
I am running so Pasco voters can have a choice for a change. The Republican Party's domination of state politics has created the nation's worse insurance crisis; sparked a mass exodus of teachers, law enforcement personnel, and low paid labor; and disregarded the needs of common Floridians while it lines the pockets of big business donors and fights a phony culture war against an imaginary invasion of un-Christian values.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
The insurance crisis is far from over and is sure to worsen as climate change increases the chances of disastrous hurricanes and flooding. Capping rate increases is only a temporary salve. It is a complicated issue, and I don't profess to have a solution. Both parties should unite to form a bipartisan committee to address the fact that Florida has by far the nation's highest insurance rates.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
Recreational marijuana should be regulated like alcohol: prohibiting sales to minors; permitting local establishments to ban its use on their premises; and taxing the heck out of it. The tax revenues can be directed to support low-income housing and our public school system.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I oppose Florida's current six-week abortion law. A woman's decision to carry a pregnancy to term should be between her and her family and physician. After viability, abortions should be limited to instances in which the health of the fetus or mother is in jeopardy.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
To reduce the cost of living, home and car insurance rate increases, as well as utility and rent rate increases, should be capped. Medicaid should be expanded. The State minimum wage should be immediately increased to $15.00 an hour.
State Representative, District 57
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Adam C. Anderson (REP)
Florida state representative, business owner and rare disease research advocate. Education: Bachelor's in finance and bachelor's in real estate from FSU.
What are your top three priorities?
Increasing affordability, especially in property and auto insurance, education, expanding access to and the quality of health care especially when it comes to advancing cutting-edge genetic and bio tech research. Supporting our universities & medical research institutions working on genetic & immunotherapy research can help usher in the future of medicine in Florida while creating new high paying jobs and diversifying our economy.
Why are you running?
My life's experiences have led me to a place in which I want to have an ability to make a greater impact in important issues. In my first term, I had the opportunity to become a voice for families living with genetic disorders and rare pediatric diseases. This is just one example of how we can have citizen-legislators who can make individual impacts based on personal experiences.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
I think there are very clear signs our property insurance market is stabilizing, which is critical to restore a competitive insurance marketplace. ... Nine new carriers have been approved to do business in Florida, which should increase competition ... but we still need more insurers to enter the market. ... We also need to ensure Floridians who have legitimate losses get paid according to the terms of their contract. We need to hold insurers accountable, and we need to strengthen consumers' rights.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
I'd support anything that makes sure we don't turn into places like New York City. We have to protect our quality of life and public safety I will support those priorities. If Amendment 3 passes, we need to ensure it's not marketed or accessible to minors and its use is prohibited in public areas like beaches, parks and school zones. Additionally, I'd propose the tax revenue generated is directed to law enforcement, health care and education.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I do. To me, there is a constitutional right to life for every person, and as someone who believes that life begins at conception, I think we have an obligation to protect that life.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
We must continue to cut taxes and live within our means as a state. The amount of money taxpayers save just based on the fiscal responsibility of the state ... is helpful to improve the quality of life while keeping taxes low. We need to do more to tackle insurance issues. Insurance companies need to be more accountable. Lawyers have to be regulated to not inject frivolous lawsuits into our market. During my first term, very significant reforms were made, now we must ensure savings follow.
( ) Kelly Johnson (DEM)
Second-time candidate who initially ran because of frustration with Florida's unemployment system. Education: Bachelor's in exercise sports science, Clearwater Christian College.
What are your top three priorities?
My top three priorities for District 57 are 1. Stop overdevelopment 2. Lower homeowner's insurance and cost of living. 3. Address our mental health crisis.
Why are you running?
I am running for state House 57 in Pinellas County with a mission to break through the political gridlock and deliver real solutions for every resident. As a native Floridian and lifelong resident of the district, I have seen incredible changes but those changes have come at a cost to our environment and our economy. I'd like to go back to the basics, stop wasteful government spending, and give our future back to our people.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
The insurance crisis is getting worse. Look at the areas that were hit hard by Ian. ... Without Citizens, they would be uninsured. We need to stop overdevelopment, which is part of why many of our streets flood and cause most of the damage for claims, and find ways to stop insurance companies from influencing our Legislature. We should also be better at educating homeowners on insurance and ways to save money. And continue providing grants for homeowners to bring their residences up to code.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
We will need to implement time and place restrictions on commercial sales and impose liability risks on commercial marijuana retailers. We will need to standardize and determine the quality of commercial marijuana to protect consumers from additives and inform them of the product's potency. We can tax minors out of their financial ability to purchase and have strict ID requirements at point of sale. And pass regulatory measures to limit passive exposure.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
As a mother of eight children, I have led a life of protecting kids. However, I do not feel the government should be in charge of health care decisions. Having a child is a huge decision. As a state we can support children and families by offering more services and encourage women to choose life ... but we should not condemn those who decide having a baby is not right for them. I do not support the current six-week abortion ban.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
We need to address the rising cost of homeowners insurance first. We need to reduce the lobbying power of insurance agencies, utilities and other services that impact our cost of living. One solution is to build more housing but district 57 can't afford that unless we reduce the environmental expect of that housing. Allowing accessory dwelling units statewide would help. Rezoning commercial for residential will increase supply. Also innovative housing solutions for young adults like POD living.
State Representative, District 58
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Kimberly "Kim" Berfield (REP)
Incumbent state representative and executive at a non-profit healthcare provider. Education: Clearwater High School; associate's, St. Petersburg College, bachelor's, UCF, master of business administration, Northeastern University.
What are your top three priorities?
My overarching priorities are ensuring that Floridians are safe, have access to resources and are prioritized as we make further progress. In specific terms, this means: Creating an affordable environment by leaving hard-earned dollars in residents' pockets; Encouraging predictive instead of reactionary action for improving transportation and infrastructure; Requiring fiscal transparency for Medicaid programs to ensure patients are truly receiving the support for which they are eligible.
Why are you running?
Pinellas County is my home. I wasn't born here, but I got here as fast as I could before my second birthday. My life has been shaped by the people and institutions of Pinellas County; it is my honor and privilege to serve a community that has provided so many opportunities to me. Our neighbors are facing real issues today, issues that impact their day-to-day lives, survival and prosperity. I seek to be a committed representative in Tallahassee fighting for the necessary changes.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
Insurance is a dynamic issue. It is significant and there will always be room for improvement. We must prioritize safeguarding our residents from nefarious companies and those who are insolvent. Without question, the skyrocketing premiums Floridians are experiencing across insurance products are unsustainable.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
Regulations to penalize underage use, penalties associated with driving under the influence and smoking within proximity to hospitals, in public places, etc., consistent with tobacco/alcohol are needed. A recreational marijuana use tax can be implemented, the same as tobacco and alcohol. These use taxes can be leveraged for medical cancer research or to pay for a state database like the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program and youth anti-drug programs.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
This is a sensitive personal issue involving numerous emotions, beliefs, situations and evolving science to create families. This November, each voter will have the opportunity to make their voice heard on this issue. I would encourage everyone to vote. As State Representative, I am tasked with representing the will of my constituents.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
To ensure Floridians are able to remain in Florida, the Legislature must do everything possible to create a more affordable environment and protect people from being "priced out" of their lives here. We need to eliminate duplicative taxes; incentivize affordable houses; negotiate solutions to skyrocketing auto and homeowners' insurance policies; encourage affordable childcare endeavors; and promote our local agricultural industries.
( ) Bryan Beckman (DEM)
Chairperson, Florida Suncoast Sierra Group; husband of Clearwater council member Kathleen Beckman. Education: Bachelor's, Western Michigan University.
What are your top three priorities?
A key priority for me is restoring women's reproductive freedoms that have been taken away by my opponent. Another key priority is lowering the costs for families, including skyrocketing insurance, housing, and electricity costs. Finally, I will apply my deep environmental experience to protect our green spaces and natural parks. Our parks are precious resources that we must protect through laws that prevent elected officials from harming them.
Why are you running?
Our district deserves a representative that treats the job as their number one priority, every day. Our representative does not meet with families across our district or hold town halls to listen to people's concerns. Instead, she focuses her time on delivering for lobbyists and large corporations. Residents are tired of it and deserve better.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
Definitely not. I am committed to reforming the property insurance system to protect homeowners from skyrocketing premiums and ensure timely claims processing. My opponent has accepted huge sums of money from the insurance industry over decades and was even named Legislator of the Year by insurance companies. I support strengthening the Catastrophe Fund to help bring national insurers back to Florida, which will help lower premiums.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
Safe and responsible legislation will be important. This includes age limits and quality standards. Public education in our schools will also be important. With additional state revenue associated with the regulated sale of marijuana, we should also support substance abuse programs to help anyone suffering from addiction.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I do not support the extreme six-week abortion law. My opponent voted for it. I stand firmly with women in Florida, advocating for their right to make their own personal healthcare decisions. I have fought and will continue to fight to ensure that every woman has access to the healthcare services she needs, without government interference. As a result, I have been endorsed by Florida Planned Parenthood and Florida National Organization for Women PAC.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
The super majority in Tallahassee has repeatedly diverted huge amounts of money from the housing (Sadowski) fund. They have largely ignored our housing crisis. I helped form the Clearwater Alliance for Housing that champions housing funding and solutions for our community. A top priority for me will be to restore housing funding to previously approved levels that can be used immediately to create more housing, help with rent and help more first-time home buyers.
State Representative, District 59
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Berny Jacques (REP)
State House representative since 2022, former prosecutor, nonprofit director. Education: Bachelor's in history and political studies, Washington Adventist University; law degree, Stetson University College of Law.
What are your top three priorities?
Public safety, cost of living/economy, education.
Why are you running?
To make sure Florida remains the land of freedom and opportunity.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
We've seen some improvements but it's not where I'd like it to be. I am currently working on legislation that will address property insurance.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
By protecting minors and by making sure marijuana smoke doesn't become a nuisance in our public spaces.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I support our Heartbeat Protection Act.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
Work towards making housing and insurance more affordable.
( ) Dawn Douglas (DEM)
Pinellas County teacher and union representative, unsuccessfully ran for state House in 2018, 2020 and 2022. Education: Bachelor's in English, USF St. Petersburg.
What are your top three priorities?
Women's health rights: The government does not have the right to control women's bodies, health care decisions or their reproductive rights. Education: High stakes testing, overcrowded classrooms, vouchers and private enterprise schools drying up funding and low pay are leading to a crisis in our system. Environment: We must halt the invasion of natural habitats by man and invasive species. It is time to face the reality of climate change and work with many governmental agencies to reverse it.
Why are you running?
I'm running for office because I'm tired of continually watching lawmakers make decisions that benefit the few and diminish the chances of the average Floridian to enjoy a life that is fulfilling.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
We are still in a crisis with regard to insurance in Florida. Lawmakers must attract insurance companies back to Florida with incentives such as reinsurance by the state and enforcing penalties for fraudulent insurance claims, which drive up policy costs.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
When Amendment 3 passes, the sale of cannabis can be regulated much like the sale of alcohol. It should only be sold in a store dedicated solely to the sale of cannabis and products related to its use.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I do not support Florida's six-week abortion ban. I would fight to restore women's rights to the premise of Roe v. Wade. Over 70% of citizens across the country and in Florida support the rights we had under the doctrine of Roe v. Wade.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
The cost of living in Florida can be enhanced by improving public transportation systems, attracting new industries with higher wages, providing training for higher paying jobs and helping families with lower cost housing. We must create policies that promote lower rents and home prices so families can enjoy the benefits of a stable and safe home environment.
State Representative, District 60
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Ed Montanari (REP)
St. Petersburg City Council member and retired American Airlines pilot. Education: Bachelor's degree in aeronautical science, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
What are your top three priorities?
My first priority is to address the property insurance crisis. I will demand the creation of an Insurance Fraud Task Force to lower rates. We must protect our jobs and public safety by empowering local law enforcement to quickly deport illegals who enter the country to traffic drugs. Finally, we must cut government spending and regulations to make things more affordable.
Why are you running?
I'm an outsider who will bring fresh leadership to Tallahassee to make our communities affordable and hold the insurance companies accountable. Homeownership is a quintessential part of the American dream, but it is becoming increasingly out of reach for many because of the affordability crisis. I'm running to help make Pinellas County affordable again.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
I will demand accountability from Big Insurance. I want a task force to end insurance company fraud and profiteering. Any reforms must help consumers, not the companies' bottom line. I would also work to expand the My Safe Florida Home program to allow Floridians to prepare their homes and receive discount premiums.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
I don't support Amendment 3. I believe that the current system of medical marijuana is adequate to address the needs of Floridians. If the voters were to approve Amendment 3, I would seek to have a strict approach to the regulation of recreational marijuana that responds to the will of the voters while protecting public safety, similar to how we regulate the use of alcohol for adults.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I do not support extreme political positions on either side, and I do not support the six-week abortion law. I would not have voted for it. I believe that a woman should be able to choose what's best for her up to the 15th week of the pregnancy, and in the case of rape, incest and if the life of the mother is in danger.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
We need to put the government on a diet. I'll work to cut spending so that we can cut taxes and reduce government regulation. Florida's economy works best for everyone with a small, efficient government so that Floridians can keep their hard-earned money.
( ) Lindsay Cross (DEM)
Incumbent District 60 Florida House representative and environmental scientist. Education: University of South Florida, master's degree in environmental science and policy; Colorado State University, bachelor's degree in environmental health, minor in Spanish.
What are your top three priorities?
Reducing the cost of living, including property insurance and rent. Defending women's reproductive rights and supporting the implementation of Amendment 4 in the Legislature. Standing up to corporate polluters and improving the health of our environment and economy.
Why are you running?
I ran for office because many of the most pressing issues in Pinellas - from flooding, water quality and sea level rise - hinge on our ability to pass policies that recognize the connection between our environment, public health and economy. With decades of experience as an environmental scientist, I am leading on these issues in Tallahassee and on policies that address the affordability crisis. More than anything, I've proven that I listen to and work for the people, not for special interests
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
No. After $3 billion in taxpayer-funded bailouts, insurance rates have continued to rise. Floridians need leaders willing to hold insurance companies accountable and require lower rates when supported with bailouts. Companies should offer a sliding scale based on the age of roofs. We must address reinsurance and look at bipartisan solutions, like separating storm damage from home insurance at the statewide level. And the Office of Insurance Regulation should be an elected position in Florida.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
I support Amendment 3. I support a taxing, regulating, and distributing system similar to alcoholic beverages so that consumers know what they're getting and products do not get in the hands of minors. And while we should expand freedoms in Florida, we need common-sense regulations to limit marijuana use in public places.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
Absolutely not. Floridians must pass Amendment 4 and end the extreme abortion ban passed by the Legislature (which I voted against). When Amendment 4 passes, it's critical that there are allies in the Legislature that will ensure that it is implemented the way the voters intended. We can't afford to go back and continue to strip freedoms away from Floridians.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
First, we must increase the supply of affordable housing, which is why I passed a policy as part of the Live Local Act to incentivize affordable housing. Second, the state needs to fully fund the Sadowski Affordable Housing Trust fund each year and accelerate projects that provide real affordable housing. Finally, we must fix the insurance crisis and plan for sea level rise in development, instead of allowing construction in risky areas that increases insurance costs for all Floridians.
State Representative, District 61
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Linda Chaney (REP)
This candidate did not respond to multiple requests to participate in the voter guide. Answers are based on public statements and other available information.
State representative since 2020, former marketing director and St. Pete Beach city commissioner. Education: Bachelor's from USF.
What are your top three priorities?
The candidate declined to participate in this survey. Her top priorities on her website includes lowering taxes and reducing regulations, protecting water quality and the environment and lowering health insurance premiums.
Why are you running?
The candidate declined to participate in this survey. On her website, she says her campaign is "about protecting the voices in our district," including protecting beaches "without interfering in the economics of tourism" and rebuilding infrastructure without raising taxes.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
The candidate declined to participate in this survey. The candidate voted for legislation in recent years that made it harder and more expensive to sue insurance companies, which has been the state's primary response to the insurance crisis.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
The candidate declined to participate in this survey. Her website does not address the amendment. In the Legislature this year, she voted for a bill that, should Amendment 3 pass, would cap THC potency at 30% for marijuana meant for smoking and at 60% for extracts and other marijuana products. The bill did not pass the Legislature.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
The candidate declined to participate in this survey. The candidate voted for the six-week abortion bill in the Legislature.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
The candidate declined to participate in this survey. Her website does not directly address cost of living, but she does advocate for reducing taxes and lowering health insurance premiums.
( ) Nathan Bruemmer (DEM)
Attorney and former state LGBTQ+ consumer advocate who would be the state's first trans lawmaker. Education: Bachelor's from USF; law degree from Stetson University.
What are your top three priorities?
Insurance, cost of living, and climate change. What makes Florida a unique destination to work, live and play also creates our greatest vulnerabilities. We are vulnerable to rising sea levels and hurricanes. We must protect our water resources our agriculture, fishing and tourism industries depend on them. The economic impacts of climate change have and will continue to affect our citizens through insurance rate increases and other costs.
Why are you running?
I am running for this office because I want to work for the people of our district and my home state. I will work to find solutions to the tough issues that are most important to Floridians, and I have the experiences and qualifications to deliver.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
No, the insurance crisis is not over in Florida. We need to work to create a stable and affordable insurance marketplace in Florida one that works to protect consumers. We must work to keep the cost of insurance affordable, such as preventing fraud following catastrophic storms, creating opportunities for homeowners to make their homes storm resistant, bringing more insurance carriers to Florida and educating consumers about insurance and filing claims.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
Regulating the sale and use of recreational marijuana should include establishing a clear legal framework, quality control and safety standards, labeling standards, determinations of where sales and usage are allowed, structure for taxation and revenue, laws when using and operating a motor vehicle, on-going research and education and outreach to consumers.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I do not support Florida's six-week abortion law. I support Amendment 4. I support access to health care.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
Reducing Floridians' cost of living must include collaboration to create comprehensive strategies that lower costs in housing, property taxes, utilities, transportation, health care, education and goods and services. We must develop new ideas and programs and provide the outreach necessary to educate and assist consumers. First-time home buyer assistance, preventive health care, affordable child care, support for small businesses and local farms and work to stabilize prices are all options.
State Representative, District 62
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Nelson Amador (REP)
Hillsborough teacher and prior Democratic candidate for state office, also known as Amaro Lionheart. Education: Bachelor's and master's, St. Thomas University.
What are your top three priorities?
1. Election integrity: Secure our elections by preventing party-switching manipulation, ensuring all legal votes count. 2. Pro-life advocacy: Strengthen laws protecting the unborn and uphold the sanctity of life. 3. Economic growth: Reduce regulations to foster development, create jobs and empower small businesses.
Why are you running?
I'm running to restore integrity, protect our values, and fight for the rights of the unborn. Our nation's future rests on strong leadership that honors faith, family, and freedom. Together, we will preserve Florida's greatness.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
No, the insurance crisis is still a major issue. I plan to reduce bureaucratic red tape and encourage innovation through strategic partnerships between the public and private sectors. By promoting transparency and fostering competition, we can lower premiums while ensuring Floridians have access to quality, affordable coverage. My goal is to create a more efficient, consumer-friendly system that balances affordability with the high standards of care and protection residents deserve.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
I would ensure strict regulations on recreational marijuana, including strong enforcement measures to prevent underage use and impaired driving. I support local authority in decision-making, ensuring the safety of our communities.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
Yes, I strongly support the six-week abortion law. It aligns with my belief in the sanctity of life, as outlined in Scripture. Every life is precious and must be protected from conception.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
I will reduce unnecessary regulations that burden small businesses, offer tax incentives for essential services, and promote market-driven housing solutions to increase affordability while maintaining economic growth.
( ) Michele K. Rayner (DEM)
Civil rights attorney who became first openly queer Black member of the Florida legislature in 2020. Education: Bachelor's and master's, FSU, juris doctorate, Florida Coastal School of Law.
What are your top three priorities?
Food insecurity, preventative healthcare and equity and social media accountability for minors.
Why are you running?
I want to continue the work I have done by fostering relationships across the aisle and ensuring the children of the state of Florida are protected on social media and address issues of food insecurity.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
It is most certainly not over. The legislature must go back to the drawing board. The legislature must lift the limitation for the consumer to access the courts.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
Perhaps through an existing framework that already exists using medical marijuana.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I do not support it. I support Amendment 4 and allowing the decision to be made between a woman and her doctor.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
First, the state needs to accept federal monies for school breakfast and lunch for children. Additionally, we have to make housing affordability an actuality, including removing the preemption on rent control. Additionally, the state needs to roll back preemptions for cities and counties regarding minimum wage.
State Representative, District 63
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Tim Driver (REP)
Former president of the Hillsborough County Black Republican Club, assistant pastor and life coach. Education: Bachelor's Purdue University, Master's Illinois Institute of Technology, pursuing MBA from Howard University.
What are your top three priorities?
I will fight to close achievement gaps in our education system and to provide more vocational education and financial literacy. I will be an advocate for economic policies that support small businesses, attract new industries, and foster innovation, creating job opportunities. I want our justice system to be fair and equal, unburdened by systemic biases and over-incarceration. I'll fight to create a more just society, where the punishment fits the crime and no one is above the law.
Why are you running?
My campaign's theme, "Drive For Change," represents the life I've tried to lead, and the ultimate goal of the campaign. It signifies my determination to steer our community in the right direction, to guide us toward a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow. It embodies my refusal to settle for the status quo and my unwavering dedication to propel my district and our state to new heights.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
No. The insurance crisis isn't over until we are able to reduce insurance costs and increase competition in the state.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
Yes I would regulate and tax the sale and use of recreational marijuana. I'd do so primarily to ensure public safety. I would work with the Council of State Governments to ensure that we have the right legislation in place. I'd also fight to expunge prior criminal convictions for low-level offenses.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I would prefer no weeks. But if I had to compromise, the less weeks, the better.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
Work to reduce taxes and insurance costs.
( ) Dianne "Ms. Dee" Hart (DEM)
U.S. representative from Tampa, housing nonprofit consultant. Education: Bachelor's from Springfield College Tampa campus.
What are your top three priorities?
Affordable housing. Insurance, both homeowner and auto, and the impact of insurance causing people to lose their homes. Criminal justice individuals incarcerated do not have a voice. Florida has a very large prison population.
Why are you running?
I have chosen to run to continue the fight I started six years ago not only for the people in my district but to help the other 22 million people here in Florida. As it relates to housing, insurance education, healthcare, and environment.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
The insurance crisis is not over and won't be over until Florida legislators being some changes to the insurance laws and require companies to bring down rates.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
When Amendment 3 passes I'm sure the state will have a hand in regulating it. The fact that so many people who are currently incarcerated should be decriminalized, and allowed to start their lives over is important to me.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I do not support the six-week abortion law. I believe that should be determined by the woman her doctor and her god or high being and not by the Florida Legislators.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
As an elected official we must ensure good quality jobs are brought to Florida with a living wage to assist people in being able to have quality of life. I don't believe I can reduce many of their living cost however we can help lower health insurance, expand Medicaid, help to bring down housing cost both rent and homeownership
State Representative, District 64
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Maura Cruz Lanz (REP)
This candidate did not respond to multiple requests to participate in the voter guide. Answers are based on public statements and other available information.
Retired vice president of family business. Education: Jefferson High School, vocational training at the former Mohawk Beauty School. Additional course work in real estate and Bible studies.
What are your top three priorities?
In 2022, when Lanz ran for the same office, she told the Tampa Bay Times her priorities were to "cut taxes to fight inflation," "create a bi-partisan efforts to lower housing costs for Floridians" by capping property taxes at 6.5% and "support expanding school choice and strengthening parental rights in the education and raising of their children." Her current website lists "America First," "Constitutional Conservative" and "Protecting Personal Freedoms" at the top of her checklist.
Why are you running?
Lanz's website states that she "believes the U.S. government has become very tyrannical. Deeply desires to fight and make sure your God given freedoms, written in the United States Constitution, are protected for everyone's children and grandchildren."
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
In 2022, Lanz told the Tampa Bay Times she supported DeSantis' property insurance reforms, "but would consider exploring ways that homeowners and policyholders could obtain more immediate relief from the rise in rates that occurred earlier this year, provided that relief would not raise taxes on hardworking families, seniors, and veterans."
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
The candidate did not respond to the survey.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
Lanz's website states she is pro-life.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
In 2022, Lanz told the Tampa Bay Times she supported cutting taxes and using the state's budget surplus to fund programs "until inflation is under control." She also said she supported capping property taxes at 6.5%, splitting "the difference between 3% for homeowners and 10% for commercial properties to ease the costs of rental housing." She has spoken recently against raising millage taxes in Hillsborough County.
( ) Susan L. Valdes (DEM)
Florida state representative, former Hillsborough County School Board member, health practice admin. Education: Bachelor's in applied science, Nova Southeastern University; master's in science, Manhattan College.
What are your top three priorities?
My top three priorities are education, housing affordability and inflation in the state of Florida.
Why are you running?
I am running for my senior term to focus on repealing the High School Certificate of Completion, address the issues of housing affordability, prison reform and address inflation in the state of Florida.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
No the insurance crisis isn't over. I would bring together a non-partisan group of expert stakeholders and figure out the solution to this crisis.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
I would address licensing and retail regulations; taxation; age restriction and usage; ensure packaging is clearly specified; of course, look into addressing law enforcement and criminal justice; make a public education campaign; and have youth prevention programs in place. This will take serious conversation with legislators as to what its implementation looks like.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
No, I do not support the current abortion law. We need to change the constitution and vote yes on Amendment 4.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
I would address corporate greed.
State Representative, District 65
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Karen Gonzalez Pittman (REP)
This candidate did not respond to multiple requests to participate in the voter guide. Answers are based on public statements and other available information.
State representative, former Pinellas and Hillsborough public schools employee, business owner. Education: Master's in Measurement, Testing and Evaluation from USF; bachelor's in elementary education from USF.
What are your top three priorities?
The candidate did not respond to this survey. In an interview with Bay News 9 in April, Gonzales Pittman said her priority is to "ensure that Floridians are receiving the best-quality health care possible, and the most affordable the most efficient." Gonzalez Pittman's campaign literature mentions several priorities, including fighting inflation, passing bipartisan insurance reforms to cap rates and guarantee payouts, reducing building regulations and fighting illegal immigration.
Why are you running?
Gonzalez Pittman is running for her second term in the Florida House. She first ran for her seat when the incumbent left to run for Congress, and she was endorsed by the incumbent. She served on multiple education committees, a water quality subcommittee and a health innovation committee.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
The candidate's campaign literature says Gonzalez Pittman wants to pass bipartisan insurance reforms to cap rates and guarantee payouts.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
The candidate has not taken a public stance on Amendment 3 or what to do if it is enacted.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
The candidate voted against Florida's six-week abortion ban. That law prohibits most abortions after six weeks of pregnancy, with exceptions for rape and incest. She was not in office when Florida passed the 15-week abortion ban legislation, which banned most abortions after that point with no exceptions for rape and incest.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
The candidate doesn't have policy plans listed on their website, but their campaign literature says that they want to reduce building regulations that drive up housing costs.
( ) Ashley Brundage (DEM)
Business owner, diversity, equity and inclusion advocate who would become state's first trans lawmaker. Education: Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace, USF, diploma from C. Leon King High School.
What are your top three priorities?
Address the insurance crisis through advocacy to offer more competitive pricing across different types of insurance and hold the legal industry accountable for lawsuits that drive up insurance. Advocate for Amendment 4 as the government shouldn't make decisions about people's bodies. Advocate for small businesses and entrepreneurs in Tallahassee. I built an economic empowerment program for a national Chamber that was duplicated by five countries. I will bring that expertise to Tallahassee.
Why are you running?
The supermajority has endangered our tourism through discussions and bills against people's freedoms. When I tell people I'm from Florida they wonder if I'm safe. This will have a financial impact on our ability to sell conferences and conventions coming to our state, which get booked three to seven years in advance. We have yet to feel the fallout of turning Florida into a place where women feel unsafe, LGBTQ people feel unsafe and it's unsafe to educate about Black history and racism.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I am a champion for getting the government out of making decisions about people's bodies. Women should have the ability to choose what is best for them based on their discussions with their medical professional. No elected official should be deciding what is right for a woman. I'll be advocating for Amendment 4 to pass and then I will work to make sure that the will of the voters is respected in ensuring that the current six-week abortion ban is removed immediately.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
Big corporations must pay their fair share of taxes. That's not happening under the Republican administration. I was a Republican for 32 years and the old Republican Party was more about the people. We must work across the aisle and get things done for all people. The supermajority has not served Florida because they don't have to work with Democrats. Corporations need more accountability. I have held corporations accountable in my work as national vice president of diversity and inclusion at PNC Bank.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
No. Ask your readers what they think about insurance prices, even ones like me that rent. We pay higher cost association because of higher insurance from the landlord. The trickle-down of high prices affects the lowest-level people in our community. I'll work with both parties to hold corporations responsible. I've done years of research on empowering people in my work, so whether I vote yes or no on every bill will be judged against that bill's ability to empower people, not corporations.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
We can implement this the same way we tax alcohol, cigarettes and gas. The tax revenue from marijuana could be about $4.1 billion. That money could give insurance pricing relief to Floridians to a tune of more than $200 per person if we direct it to empower the people. Marijuana is already being bought on the black market and entering our state from other states and none of those sales generate revenue for our state. We must ensure that Amendment 3 passes to leverage that income for our state.
State Representative, District 66
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Traci Koster (REP)
Representative for District 66, marital and family law attorney. Education: Bachelor's in legal studies, University of Central Florida; law degree, Stetson University College of Law.
What are your top three priorities?
Improving Florida's foster care system, combating insurance rates and making Florida more affordable.
Why are you running?
I'm running to bring my life's experience to help inform good public policy. We have tremendous opportunities ahead for Florida, but we also face many challenges. We have a foster care system in need of major overhaul, an insurance market that needs real transparency and accountability and we're continuing to lead the nation in fiscal health and education reform. These issues are all near and dear to me and I want to continue working on them.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
No, I think the state will always have to be on the front foot to make sure we don't have bad actors gaming the system right now we need to do more to provide accountability and transparency as noted above. If we strive for those principles, we can help drive rates down.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
We'd have to ensure it aligns with and meets the clean air standards of the federal government.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I voted against the six-week ban, but supported the 15-week ban in my previous term. And while I don't support the six-week ban, this Amendment 4 "fix" is absolutely unacceptable and goes way too far in allowing for abortion up to the moment of birth and rolls back parental rights.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
We are taking great strides in making certain sales tax holidays permanent, certain home improvements tax exempt from property taxes, offering hurricane hardening grant programs to help Floridians and reduce insurance exposure, while still delivering historic tax and toll relief and balancing our budget. We have more to do to lower insurance rates. I believe we should form an insurance fraud task force to investigate corruption and increase transparency in our insurance industry.
( ) Nick Clemente (DEM)
Former police officer, army veteran and longtime member of the Democratic Party. Education: Bachelor's in government, California State University Sacramento; master's in security studies, Naval Postgraduate School.
What are your top three priorities?
Housing affordability, women's reproductive freedom and investing in public education top my list of priorities. The cost of living in Tampa Bay is out of control and too many people feel like they can no longer make Tampa home. We must pass Amendment 4 to eliminate government interference into health care decisions between a patient and their doctor. And we must adequately fund our schools so we can attract and retain quality teachers and improve performance in the classroom.
Why are you running?
I've seen real leadership up close. As a former police officer, retired U.S. Army soldier and local businessperson, I know what it takes to solve tough problems. For too long, I've seen our elected officials in Tallahassee failing the simple tests of leadership. I've been successful bringing people together in the toughest places on earth by respecting one another and using common sense. I want to bring that experience and my record of producing results to the state House.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
I believe it is too early to declare the crisis over. Instead of waiting to see if their initial set of reforms had worked, the Republicans in Tallahassee took further action to erode policy holder protections and allow insurance companies to delay, low-ball and frustrate customers without adequate legal recourse. While time will tell if the market is stabilizing, we must go back and ensure that Floridians can hold their insurance companies accountable.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
I would support regulating marijuana as a blend of the ways we regulate tobacco and alcohol. Like tobacco, there should be limits on use in public spaces, advertising to minors, packaging and branding that appeals to minors, clear surgeon general warnings, and a hefty tax. Like alcohol, we must ensure that people under the influence of marijuana cannot legally operate a vehicle, heavy machinery, or perform other tasks that require their full, unfettered capabilities.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I do not support our current, near-total abortion ban. The existing law is so extreme that it puts women's lives in danger and subjects doctors to criminal liability. I fully support passing Amendment 4 to enshrine a constitutional right to abortion before fetal viability or when necessary to protect patient health. Bottom line, I believe we should trust patients and doctors to make their own health care decisions without interference from politicians or government bureaucrats.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
The biggest drivers of increased costs in Florida right now are housing and insurance, both home and auto. We must incentivize smart development to increase the housing supply, limit corporate ownership of single family homes, establish increased protections for renters and stabilize the insurance market while protecting policy holders from unscrupulous insurance companies acting in bad faith and claiming poverty.
State Representative, District 67
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Ronrico "Rico" Smith (REP)
U.S. Air Force Reserves officer, health care consultant, Boys & Girls Club of Tampa Bay board member. Education: Bachelor's in business administration from Trident University International.
What are your top three priorities?
1. Lowering daily living costs, tackling inflation and encouraging job growth to make Florida cost-effective for families and businesses. 2. Making homeownership accessible by addressing rising property insurance rates and streamlining housing development. 3. Leveraging my health care background to secure additional Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services funding, advocate for direct hospital payments, and promote innovations to reduce costs, ensuring affordable health care for all Floridians.
Why are you running?
I am running to directly challenge the ineffective leadership and radical agenda of Leader Fentrice Driskell. Driskell prefers playing politics and virtue signaling over delivering real results. Inspired by mentors like Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna and state Sen. Jay Collins, I am committed to providing the effective leadership and tangible change our community needs. With a strong support network, I am best equipped to bring meaningful representation and sound leadership to House Seat 67.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
The question of abortion will be on the ballot this November. Regardless of my personal views, the Supreme Court of Florida has determined that this decision lies with the voters of our state. Once the voters have made their voices heard, it will be our responsibility as legislators to discuss and determine the next steps based on the will of the people.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
My platform is centered around reducing the cost of living, as we've seen it exponentially grow. It takes a web of policy changes to accomplish this, including lowering taxes, encouraging businesses to start up and thrive, creating high-paying jobs, reducing the cost of home ownership, and tackling health care costs. We need to implement good policies in tandem to make Florida the best and most vibrant place to work, live and raise a family.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
Absolutely not, the insurance crisis is far from over. While we've made good strides with recent tort reforms, our market still struggles. Years under a hostile business environment left only a handful of insurers in the state. Florida accounts for 78% of property lawsuits nationwide. We need to continue incentivizing insurers to return and ensure a fair balance between insurers and the market, fostering a more stable and competitive environment.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
If Amendment 3 passes, the state must capture tax revenue to fund essential services like schools. As legislators, we need to build a framework to prevent public usage abuse and protect those who do not want to be exposed to it. This involves setting clear regulations on sale, distribution and consumption while ensuring public safety and community standards are upheld.
( ) Fentrice Driskell (DEM)
Leader of the Florida House Democrats, elected state representative since 2018. Education: Law degree, Georgetown University; bachelor's, Harvard University.
What are your top three priorities?
My top three priorities are expanding access to affordable housing; taking care of our environment, including investing in renewable energy; and strengthening our education system to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. These three priorities together will ensure that Florida's economy is strong and that all Floridians have the chance to thrive.
Why are you running?
The reason I'm running for office is very simple. I believe that every Floridian deserves the freedom to be healthy, prosperous and safe. Our state is facing significant barriers, where one side of the aisle is putting culture wars before common sense. House District 67 needs a representative who will fight for equitable policies targeted at the success of its constituents, regardless of experience, background or political affiliation.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
The insurance crisis continues to harm Floridians every day. The Florida House Democratic Caucus has proposed numerous reasonable solutions to the crisis over several legislative sessions. I will continue to work with all of my colleagues in the House and at the national level to advocate for solutions which protect consumers and stop handouts to major insurance companies at the expense of homeowners and renters.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
Nearly half of U.S. states have effective legislation regulating the sale and use of recreational marijuana and many more, including Florida, already regulate medical use. We should learn from them and implement legislation that keeps Floridians safe while eliminating excessive penalties that disproportionately impact communities of color and people of lower socioeconomic status.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I do not. ... No one should have a politician looking over their shoulder in the exam room, and the six-week ban effectively substitutes the opinions of extremist politicians for the judgment of women and their physicians. ... These are deeply intimate decisions that should be between a patient and their doctor ... most women do not even know they're pregnant at six weeks. This dangerous and restrictive law needs to be overturned, and we must give Floridians the reproductive care that they deserve.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
In an effort to reduce the cost of living, I have continuously championed investing in affordable housing, ensuring we pay people what they deserve and increasing that pay to keep up with inflation, and utilizing clean energy initiatives to reduce utility bills. We must work towards a Florida that allows our residents to thrive without overwhelming burden from living expenses. We must also focus on bipartisan solutions to lower property insurance rates.
State Representative, District 68
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Lawrence McClure (REP)
State representative first elected in 2017, business owner. Education: Plant High School, Tampa.
What are your top three priorities?
Continue to pass a responsible balanced budget. Continue the common sense business climate we have cultivated in Florida. Ensure Florida agriculture, specifically strawberries, has the support and resources from the state level of government to ensure success.
Why are you running?
This would be my last term in the Florida House of Representatives after 7 sessions, should I be re-elected. I originally ran to bring a common sense approach to government and it is the reason I'm running for re-election this year.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
It certainly is not over in the eyes of the voters, or me. We must continue to work to reduce insurance costs and I will continue to champion that effort. That said, we are facing unbelievable inflationary pressures and that needs to be resolved to feel true relief across the board.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
I do not believe that it should be publicly consumed. I envision a hybrid of alcohol laws (such as not drinking and driving) and smoking laws (not in restaurants or having designated consumption areas). If the amendment passes people will have the right to possess it in Florida, but non-consumers have a right to not inhale it on every street corner.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
Yes
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
We have consistently rolled back taxes in a responsible manner while deregulating the private sector. I would like to see us build upon the successes we've had, including the domestic migration, over the last few years.
( ) Lisa Carpus (DEM)
Retired U.S. Postal Service worker, first-time candidate for Florida House District 68. Education: Bachelor's in mass communications, University of South Florida.
What are your top three priorities?
Wallet: The incumbent has been bought by a machine that has gutted homeowner protections and rigged the system against you. A vote for him is a vote for special interests, corrupt insurance companies, and dark money developers. Workers: Republicans including my opponent are limiting Home Rule (banning localities from mandating worker heat protections or raising the minimum wage). Women: I believe in limiting government interference in decisions between women and doctors.
Why are you running?
I'm tired of sitting back and seeing the Florida Legislature constantly ignoring important issues that plague Floridians; issues like the rising cost of housing and the insurance crisis. Instead they seem hell bent on culture wars -- banning books and attacking drag queens. That's not what we want -- we deserve better, we need change! We need politicians who will actually work for the people by coming up with feasible solutions to "kitchen table" issues and implementing them.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
No, it's not over. Floridians should get money back through direct subsidies from the state's budget surplus. We should also be capping premium increases in the short term, and increasing oversight of insurance companies.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
I would create a Control Commission to oversee the cultivation, distribution and sale of marijuana. I would implement strict regulations on product safety, labeling and advertising to ensure consumers are informed about the THC content, potency and potential health risks. I would establish a legal purchase age of 21, so it's in line with alcohol and tobacco regulations.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
No, I absolutely do not support the abortion ban. It's a near-total ban before many women even realize they're pregnant, without any real exceptions. We need to kick all politicians, regardless of party affiliation, out of private medical decisions.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
The state government should cap rent, utility rates and property insurance rate increases so Floridians can avoid skyrocketing housing prices, establish their family's security, and afford a safe place to live.
State Representative, District 69
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Daniel "Danny" Alvarez (REP)
State representative for Hillsborough and Polk counties, lawyer and U.S. Army veteran. Education: UF, bachelor's and master's degrees. Stetson University, law degree.
What are your top three priorities?
Bringing down both car and homeowners' insurance rates, upgrading infrastructure and roads in East Hillsborough County, and honoring and supporting first responders, veterans and active-duty military as well as focusing on protecting agriculture.
Why are you running?
I'm running to get things done, simply put. I am extremely passionate about the community I represent and the people who make it the extraordinary place that it is. I've had the privilege to represent them for two years, and I look forward to fighting for them every day.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
There's still work to do we have to require insurance companies to be more transparent and accountable to Floridians so that we see the relief we all want. We also have to look at car insurance too prices to replace technology are through the roof, but also we have a broken system that doesn't hold uninsured motorists accountable.
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
I will work to keep Florida a clean air state that won't turn us into New York City. This amendment has serious implications that could harm Florida's quality of life, and I would support any regulations that are within our state's power to protect our quality of life and public safety around this amendment.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I voted for it because I believe that life begins at conception and we have to protect that life while also allowing for exceptions. I am pro-life, but I don't judge anyone on the other side and I'd hope we could find consensus on things like banning late-term abortions, providing alternatives to women seeking abortions and providing more support for single and teenage mothers.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
We can return money directly back to taxpayers by give them tax relief which in my first two years I supported over $4 billion in tax relief. We have to drive insurance costs down. A driving factor is the cost of goods and services and the runaway inflation that the Biden administration has let loose on our state and country. But we can be more aggressive in rooting out corruption, fraud and profiteering in the system to deliver real relief, fast!
( ) Bobby Kachelries (DEM)
This candidate did not respond to multiple requests to participate in the voter guide. Answers are based on public statements and other available information.
President of Hillsborough County Young Democrats and former accountant. Education: USF, associate's degree.
What are your top three priorities?
Kachelries did not respond to emails, phone calls and social media messages inviting him to participate in the survey. According to his campaign website, Kachelries is focused on supporting Amendment 4 and defending women's bodily autonomy, increasing worker protections and securing a more equitable education system.
Why are you running?
On his website, Kachelries says: "I've grown up in this area and seen it grow alongside me. I want to see it flourish further in the hands of someone who won't sell out Florida to big business. I have a background in running the inner workings of campaigns and finances. These skills will help me work for you in District 69. I am dedicated to supporting our community members in pushing for worker's rights, accessibility, affordable housing, and the right to make choices about our own bodies."
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
On his campaign website, Kachelries said: "We've seen housing insurance skyrocket. We've seen our auto insurance skyrocket in this state. "In an April post on his personal X account, he said: "Florida has been having ever increasing issues whether it be cost of housing, high auto [and] home insurance rates, and more. Republicans have been in control of the state for a while. Yet Republicans want to focus on the 'Border Invasions,' 'Great Replacement,' and 'Trans Ideology.'"
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
Kachelries has not commented on Amendment 3 on his campaign website or social media forums.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
In an X post in May, Kachelries said: "Floridian women today woke up with less freedoms with Florida's new six-week abortion ban going into place. The [Yes on 4 Florida] campaign is doing great work at the ballot in November with Amendment 4. I will be supporting Florida women as best I can in House District 69!"
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
In a statement on his campaign website, Kachelries said: "I know what living in this district is like. I've grown up in Brandon, and we've seen rent jump from the several hundreds to well into the thousands range for simple housing and apartments... Florida boasts its low taxes to bring people in, but then we're paying what we would for government services to for-profit companies who are ready to drop Floridians on a dime when things get too risky for them."
State Representative, District 70
The 120 members of the Florida House of Representatives serve two-year terms and make $29,697 per year. State legislators propose legislation and are tasked with crafting the state’s $110 billion-plus balanced budget each year, dependent on the governor’s signature.
( ) Michael Owen (REP)
Served on the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners from November 2022 to June 2024. Education: Bachelor's, St. Leo University; law degree, Thomas M. Cooley Law School.
What are your top three priorities?
Transportation infrastructure, homeowners' insurance, enhancing educational opportunities.
Why are you running?
I was raised in Hillsborough County and want to continue to serve the people of Hillsborough County and look forward to serving the people of Manatee County. There are major challenges in House District 70 regarding growth and I believe I am well-equipped to address those challenges.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
No
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
If it passes, the public-use component should absolutely be addressed. Serious consideration should be given to outlawing the use of marijuana in public spaces. We have an obligation to protect our children.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
Yes
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
I would work to lower property insurance, cut taxes, eliminate and reduce fees and continue tax-free holidays.
( ) Luther Keith Wilkins (DEM)
Served in the military, president of the Manatee County NAACP, Manasota Black Chamber of Commerce. Education: High school diploma.
What are your top three priorities?
Improving infrastructure, promoting economic growth and job creation, health care access and affordability
Why are you running?
I have decided to enter this race because I want to restore our faith in democracy and leadership. I will do this by listening to your needs and creating the space for our community to have a voice in the decision-making process. Competent leadership requires knowing your community's needs and going after tangible solutions. Compassionate leadership comes from genuine advocacy and working for you in partnership with you.
Do you believe the insurance crisis is over? If not, what would you do about it?
I would push for regulatory reforms that promote transparency and accountability among insurers to ensure adequate reserves for claims. Increasing competition by attracting more insurers to the market is another. Promoting mitigation and resilience through tax incentives for storm-proofing homes or neighborhoods can lower risk. My efforts would include educating consumers about their insurance options and rights
If Amendment 3 passes, how would you regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana?
I would look to establish a state regulatory body and implement licensing for growers, distributors and retailers. Enforce product testing, clear labeling, and child-resistant packaging. Tax sales and allocate revenue to public health and education. Launch public awareness campaigns and fund substance abuse treatment. Define consumption laws, enforce DUI regulations and regularly review policies to ensure safety and effectiveness while promoting economic opportunities.
Do you support Florida's current six-week abortion law? If not, what would you change?
I won't give up fighting for everyone's right to decide what's best for their personal health care and their families and to take that decision out of the hands of doctors and politicians. I mourn with you, with your rage and horror, over the Supreme Court's decision overturning Roe v. Wade, and will work to restore what Roe v. Wade ended. I will continue to advocate for the rights of a woman to choose and access for all Floridians who seek facilities and services for a safe and legal abortion.
What would you do to reduce Floridians' cost of living?
Affordable housing should be addressed by supporting policies that increase the supply and accessibility of low-cost housing option; enhancing health care access and affordability by advocating for Medicaid expansion, promoting transparency in health care pricing and encouraging the establishment of community health clinics; investing in public transportation and infrastructure; promoting energy efficiency, supporting education and workforce development
Circuit Judge, 6th Circuit, Group 14
Circuit judges are nonpartisan. They are elected to a six-year term. They preside over felony criminal cases, like murder and robbery, and other case types, like divorces, juvenile delinquency, probate and guardianship, and civil lawsuits with large alleged damages. The job pays $191,163 a year.
( ) Jenn Dubbeld (NOP)
Assistant public defender, Lawyers for Literacy volunteer, Federalist Society member. Education: Bachelor's, USF; law degree, Western Michigan University Thomas Cooley Law School.
( ) Nick Fiorentino (NOP)
Managing partner, police critical incident attorney, St. Petersburg Bar board member. Education: Associate's, St. Petersburg College; bachelor's in political science, USF; law degree, Stetson University College of Law.
Hillsborough County: Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller
The clerk performs a range of record-keeping, information management and financial administration services for the county government and judicial system. In Hillsborough, they make $205,918 annually.
( ) Victor Crist (REP)
Former state representative, state senator and, most recently, Hillsborough County commissioner. Education: Associate's, St. Petersburg Junior College, 1980; bachelor's, USF, 1983.
What are your top three priorities?
1) Better clerking support of our court system. Judges need clerks to assist them in record keeping, entering documents and exhibits. Justice delayed is justice denied! 2) Cutting costs by reducing administrative duties that do not fit the constitutional and statutory requirements of this office. 3) I would implement the latest in technology and training to cut costs, speed up the process, eliminate errors, and increase transparency. Wasted time costs everyone!
Why are you running?
I have the knowledge, proven work experience and a strong track record of accomplishments to get the job done right. It is critical that our Clerk of the Court and Comptroller operates effectively, efficiently and is easily accessible on a timely basis. Improved training, and better clerking support for our courts along with advancing innovative technologies would speed up the process. It would ensure greater efficiency with less errors and lower costs, enabling the office to do more with less.
Not everyone knows what the clerk of courts does. What is the most important responsibility?
The clerk's office is primarily responsible for safeguarding public funds and protecting public records. The office performs more than 1,000 different constitutional and statutory functions and duties. They are also the county comptroller, the clerk to the board of County Commissioners, the county recorder and auditor. They provide certain additional services, resources and assistance to the courts, county government and the public.
What are the biggest challenges facing the clerk's office in the coming years?
Funding their budget, adequately staffing the court, better allocating resources and cultivating needed efficiency. With revenues that no longer match their services, and with added duties to ensure public safety and no ability to carry reserves forward, clerks are on a budget roller coaster that is heading off the tracks if changes are not made soon.
( ) Cindy Stuart (DEM)
Former Hillsborough County School Board member, Clerk of Court running for reelection. Education: Bachelor's in management information systems and programming, FSU.
What are your top three priorities?
Championing fiscal responsibility by safeguarding taxpayer dollars, fostering transparency to build trust and ensure accountability, and modernizing operations through technology and process adjustments to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Why are you running?
I'm running to continue improving access to justice, ensuring the clerk's office remains a model of efficiency, transparency and innovation. My focus is on building stronger community ties, protecting taxpayer dollars and modernizing our operations for better service, including expanding 24/7 services and enhancing online accessibility for residents.
Not everyone knows what the clerk of courts does. What is the most important responsibility?
My most important responsibility is maintaining accurate and accessible records to ensure the integrity of the judicial process. My role is crucial in upholding public trust and providing the community with the information and services they need to navigate the legal system, while also implementing safeguards like the Property Fraud Alert Program to protect homeowners.
What are the biggest challenges facing the clerk's office in the coming years?
One of the biggest challenges is managing the increasing demand for services while maintaining accuracy and efficiency on a very slim budget. As the county grows, the volume of court filings, public records requests and financial audits continues to rise. To address this, we're focused on expanding online services, using the most current technology and streamlining processes to ensure that our office remains accessible and responsive to the community's needs while safeguarding public trust.
Hillsborough County: Property Appraiser
Property appraisers value property and administer tax exemptions in their respective counties. They serve four-year terms.
( ) John Ballance (REP)
Retired sales executive running for office for the first time. Education: Bachelor's in business administration, Southeast Missouri State University.
What are your top three priorities?
1. Review all appraisals to determine any bias within the system. 2. I will then take, by the priority identified, a consistent review of all property appraisals. If there are biases I will review the existing laws that offer me latitude to apply any and all adjustments. This may and would include complete reviews of the properties in question. 3. I will then meet with the Legislature or the commissioners to identify the potential impact to the tax receipts and make the appropriate adjustments
Why are you running?
I believe I've had the correct corporate training to help me and my team appraise properties without bias. I did not make my decision to run for this office until June 3, 2024. In my short tenure of studying the position I have discovered many biases in how our property is being currently appraised.
What tech advancements would you like to see the office implement and why?
Technical advancements cost taxpayers dollars. Before I commit to any changes, I would need to fully review the systems we currently have. What I know about computers and the software they run, human error and or manipulation is 80% of all the problems that exist. I will not ask the taxpayers for money unless absolutely necessary.
What is the most important issue for property appraisers in Florida?
The current office appraises property with three methodologies: market, cost or income. There is no priority to this method. It is solely up to the property appraiser and/or his team. I will ensure that my office establishes strict criteria, known to the public, the priority we will follow. I will also work with the state legislature so they can, by law, apply strict criteria for this office to forward moving forward.
What steps will you take to help property owners understand your office?
As listed above, I will work with the county commissioners and the state legislature to write in law, the priority of the appraiser's office to use when appraising property. Three options, with no priority lead to favorability and bias in appraisals. I will apply a public forum to inform constituents of upcoming changes and who is responsible for issues when laws are not applied constitutionally.
What will you do to ensure all property owners receive any tax exemptions they're owed?
In a constitutional position such as this, I will follow the laws in place without exception. However, I will work with current law makers to adjust loose legislation to better explain how it is done, by removing subjectivity and bias that currently exists.
( ) Bob Henriquez (DEM)
Fifth-generation Floridian and former state representative seeking a fourth property appraiser term. Education: Bachelor's in political science and government, Princeton University.
What are your top three priorities?
If reelected as Hillsborough County's property appraiser, I will continue to ensure that property assessments are fair and accurate, make the property assessment process more transparent and accessible to the public, protect homeowners from over-assessment and ensure everyone receives the property tax deductions entitled to them by law.
Why are you running?
I have a proven track record of ensuring property assessments are fair and accurate, streamlined and innovated our services to save thousands in taxpayer dollars and have provided more ways for customers to reach us to ensure we are providing outstanding customer service. If reelected, I will continue to build on these successes and look for new ways to save money and innovate.
What tech advancements would you like to see the office implement and why?
I have led the office through key network and security upgrades to ensure resiliency and redundancy and will continue these projects. My office is also in the process of updating our website, which is often described as one of the best property appraiser websites in the state. Finally, I would like our office to research the possibility of a cloud-based CAMA (computer assisted mass appraisal) system.
What is the most important issue for property appraisers in Florida?
One of the most important challenges facing property appraisers in Florida is managing fluctuations in property values due to market volatility and rising property prices. Appraisers must navigate these challenges to ensure accurate and fair valuations.
What steps will you take to help property owners understand your office?
I have worked to help homeowners understand how their property is assessed, including the creation of a citizen liaison who can assist them with their unique questions and needs. I have also reached out to homeowners and real estate professionals in hundreds of forums and workshops throughout my three terms to help property owners understand how my office operates, how they can apply for exemptions and how to appeal an assessment if they believe it is unfair.
What will you do to ensure all property owners receive any tax exemptions they're owed?
My office has a robust outreach program that educates the public, real estate professionals, veterans, seniors and persons with disabilities throughout the year to inform them of the various exemption benefits available to property owners. We also send postcards to owners involved in new real estate transactions to ensure they know about any benefits.
Hillsborough County: Supervisor of Elections
The supervisor of elections is tasked with ensuring secure and seamless elections in the county, whether they be federal elections or local municipal elections. The supervisor must also ensure equitable access to voting.
( ) Billy Christensen (REP)
Former U.S. Central Command employee turned realtor, running for office for the first time. Education: Bachelor's in criminal justice and master's in international studies, Troy University.
What are your top three priorities?
Securing our elections, enhancing transparency and expanding voter education. The 2023 cyber data breach of 58,000 voters' SSN and driver's license numbers is under FBI investigation. A prior FBI investigation before 2020 highlights the need for stronger security measures. The supervisor also accepted a $2.9 million unaccountable grant from Mark Zuckerberg. Ensuring transparency is crucial for building trust. Voter education is the foundation for addressing all challenges in our election office.
Why are you running?
I'm running to restore trust and accountability in our elections. My wife was a victim of the 2023 cyber hack, which remains unresolved and under FBI investigation, while the Elections Office repeatedly dismisses residents' concerns. The community is crying out for leadership, and I believe this role offers the best opportunity to serve in what should be a nonpartisan capacity, ensuring our elections are secure, transparent and that voters are well informed.
What changes, if any, should be made to voting laws to strengthen elections and protect voting rights?
Voting rights have made great strides, and everyone eligible to vote should have their voice heard and their vote counted. Under the current supervisor, this isn't guaranteed, as seen with 21,884 blank ballots in 2020. We must strengthen laws to ensure every vote is counted and to protect against errors and negligence. It's time for leadership that truly values voter rights and election integrity.
Do you believe the current election processes in your county jurisdiction are secure?
Tampa is the second-most targeted city in America by foreign agents. Given the 2023 cyber hack, two FBI investigations (one ongoing), unethical taxpayer spending, repeated Election Day website crashes, Zuck bucks grants, unanswered public records requests and recent vote-by-mail fraud complaints from a Democratic primary candidate, I have significant concerns about the security of our current election processes. These vulnerabilities need immediate attention to ensure election integrity.
What impact do allegations of election fraud have on voter trust and the functioning of government?
Allegations of election fraud significantly erode voter trust and undermine the functioning of government. Lawsuits from both parties regarding blank ballots, the recent Democratic complaint about vote-by-mail fraud, cyber hacks and ongoing FBI investigations highlight systemic vulnerabilities. A complacent supervisor's response exacerbates public concern, leading to disillusionment with the electoral process and diminishing confidence in officials' ability to ensure fair, secure elections.
( ) Craig Latimer (DEM)
Retired Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office major seeking fourth term as supervisor of elections. Education: Bachelor's in industrial technical education, USF.
What are your top three priorities?
My top priorities are to continue to educate voters on the safeguards and transparency that afford us with secure and reliable elections, to continue to ensure convenient access to voting for all voters in our rapidly growing county, and to foster a culture of ongoing innovation and improve efficiencies in our elections processes while accommodating the continued growth in our county's population.
Why are you running?
Reliable elections are the foundation of our government. We have to get them right. I take this responsibility seriously. Since 2009, I've been a hands-on leader working to give voters the best possible experience. I've been recognized for excellence by the Governor's Sterling Council and the national Election Assistance Commission. Today's confrontational atmosphere has led many of my colleagues to retire, but only strengthens my sense of obligation to ensure our elections are in good hands.
What changes, if any, should be made to voting laws to strengthen elections and protect voting rights?
Florida has strong election laws in place that I endorse. We use paper ballots. We require ID to vote and accept 12 different forms. We have no-excuse vote by mail. We can have 8 to 14 days of early voting, allowing supervisors to make decisions based on the size of their electorate. We provide for transparency by allowing observers to watch voting and canvassing activities. And we begin tabulating vote-by-mail ballots several weeks before Election Day to eliminate delays in results reporting.
Do you believe the current election processes in your county jurisdiction are secure?
Yes. Guardrails are built into every step. We regularly update and back up voter registration records. We implement state-approved cybersecurity measures and ballot chain-of-custody procedures, with redundancies and manual backups for technology. We publicly test ballot scanners before every election. We reconcile how many ballots are issued, cast and counted. Most important, I've conducted 40 elections and each one was verified by a post-election audit confirming the accuracy of the results.
What impact do allegations of election fraud have on voter trust and the functioning of government?
It concerns me that baseless allegations of fraud could create a lack of voter trust and ultimately fewer people participating in our elections. I also worry these claims could lead to unnecessary restrictions on the election process that would increase costs and limit voter access. There are some who would take us back decades by limiting vote by mail and early voting, despite the fact that these options are proven reliable and secure. Our government functions best when we all participate.
Hillsborough County: County Commissioner, District 2
Commissioners set and oversee a budget of roughly $9 billion, establish policies and adopt local ordinances. The annual salary is $120,164, and the job is a four-year term.
( ) Ken Hagan (REP)
Hillsborough native first elected to the County Commission in 2002 and its seven-time chairperson. Education: Bachelors in finance from UF; master's in business administration, University of Tampa.
What are your top three priorities?
Diversity in transportation, including much needed road resurfacing and sidewalk repairs throughout District 2, is a core issue that the Commission can directly support. It also complements two additional priorities: economic stability and housing attainability. I would also add public safety as a fourth priority.
Why are you running?
I believe that the extreme "cancel culture" and "no compromise" perspectives advanced by many in today's public arenas undermine our community's stability, safety, and prosperity. During these unprecedented times, I will continue to provide public leadership that works in a respectful and bi-partisan fashion to improve the lives of those I serve and all of Hillsborough County.
What, in your view, are the three most critical issues currently facing Hillsborough County?
Based on feedback and my experience on the Board, 1) transportation and congestion; 2) housing affordability; and 3) public safety.
Would you have voted to put the Community Investment Tax on the ballot, and why?
CIT has brought great value and critical investment into our community. However, as I stated during our board discussion, with uncertain economic times and a school district referendum this year, I do not believe the timing is ideal, and it would have been more prudent to wait until 2026 to ask our citizens to reauthorize CIT. If it does pass, I would advocate for fire stations, completion of the Van Dyke Road, road resurfacing, sidewalk repairs and to fully connect the Upper Tampa Bay Trail.
What attributes would you bring to the job that make you the best choice as a county commissioner?
I'm a lifelong resident of Hillsborough County with a strong record of accomplishments for District 2 and the county-wide. I am also a fiscal conservative with a reasonable, common-sense voice on the Commission and have been chosen by my peers to serve an unprecedented seven times as its Board Chairman. I am an experienced, straight-shooter and know how to get meaningful things accomplished for our community. I humbly ask for your support.
( ) Patricia Altagracia Alonzo (DEM)
Former medical translator and American Sign Language teacher; current executive at a tech startup. Education: Doctoral candidate in organizational leadership, Nova Southeastern University; master's in education, Nova Southeastern University; bachelor's in American Sign Language interpreting, Columbia College.
What are your top three priorities?
Affordability: Expenses like rent, homeowners' insurance and car insurance are out of control. Groceries are also too expensive. Change: Only 17% of Hillsborough residents think quality of life will be better here in 5 years. We need to sharply change the direction of this county to make it a great place to live, work and raise a family in the future. Rights: Protecting the rights of every Hillsborough resident, including women, from an increasingly hostile state government.
Why are you running?
I was raised to prioritize family, hard work and inclusivity. More than any one issue, these values guide my choices. I have worked my whole life helping people deal with huge institutions. Our county has a $9 billion budget, and I want to be sure someone is looking out for regular people when spending decisions get made. It is possible to build a future where every family has the opportunity to thrive, but we have to actually step up and do the work to make that future real.
What, in your view, are the three most critical issues currently facing Hillsborough County?
Housing and services: Instead of slashing funding for housing, the Commission should invest in lowering housing prices and improving services for working people. Infrastructure: Ensure urban sprawl doesn't consume our green spaces, clog our roads and overfill our sewers. Do the basics well. Freedom: Students should have access to books without worrying about ideology instead of education. Women and LGBTQ residents should know that their rights are being defended by local leaders.
Would you have voted to put the Community Investment Tax on the ballot, and why?
The Tampa Bay Times recently reported that Hillsborough County logged more schools with failing grades than any other in Florida. And Florida has dropped from No. 48 to No. 50 in the country in teacher pay. I have personally seen local teachers driven away by poor pay, little support and decaying facilities. It is shocking that our Commission would choose this moment to slash CIT funding for schools from 25% down to just 5%. I would have voted for a CIT ballot initiative that maintained school funding as is.
What attributes would you bring to the job that make you the best choice as a county commissioner?
According to the census, more than 20% of Hillsborough County residents speak Spanish that's more than 300,000 people! If elected, I would be the first Afro-Latina, the only Spanish speaker, and the only American Sign Language signer on the Commission. I have spent my working life bridging gaps in communication, and I want to make sure our county government is in communication with the people it serves. Unfortunately, I'm not sure that's true right now.
Hillsborough County: County Commissioner, District 4
Commissioners set and oversee a budget of roughly $9 billion, establish policies and adopt local ordinances. The annual salary is $120,164, and the job is a four-year term.
( ) Christine Miller (REP)
Plant City Chamber president and CEO, well-known in East County. Education: Bachelor's, University of Massachusetts; master's in public administration, FSU.
What are your top three priorities?
1. Protect our wallets from higher taxes by streamlining government and making it more responsive to the needs of our residents and businesses. 2. Support our men and women in law enforcement to keep us safe. 3. Protect our quality of life and combat traffic congestion by allowing infrastructure to catch up to growth.
Why are you running?
I'm running for Hillsborough BOCC District 4 to genuinely serve at the pleasure of my constituents, addressing their needs and advocating for a positive change in East and South County.
What, in your view, are the three most critical issues currently facing Hillsborough County?
Transportation, infrastructure, and public safety.
Would you have voted to put the Community Investment Tax on the ballot, and why?
Yes. This is NOT a new tax, but a continuation. CIT funds support crucial infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, schools, parks and public facilities. CIT investments stimulate the local economy by creating jobs and attracting businesses. CIT is funded through a sales tax...not a burden solely placed on the citizens but also paid by visitors. This revenue source helps distribute cost of improvements more equitably while supporting ongoing enhancements to infrastructure and services.
What attributes would you bring to the job that make you the best choice as a county commissioner?
I bring a deep commitment to public service and a proven track record of leadership. My ability to listen attentively and communicate effectively allows me to understand and address the diverse needs of our community. With a dedication to fostering community engagement, I aim to bridge gaps and create wholistic policies that benefit all residents. My career experiences have equipped me with skills needed to navigate complex issues and make informed decisions.
( ) Nicole Payne (DEM)
President, Hillsborough Black Chamber; business owner; ran for City Council 2023; public speaker. Education: Business administration degree from Bryant & Stratton College; master's from South University.
What are your top three priorities?
Improving infrastructure and transportation. Mental health awareness. Expanding employment opportunities into the county.
Why are you running?
I am ready to provide solutions and not just talk about problems. And as County Commissioner, I will make District 4 a better place for all its residents.
What, in your view, are the three most critical issues currently facing Hillsborough County?
Affordable housing has been a critical issue for decades. Also, infrastructure and transportation especially in the county, where we are limited to almost no public transportation. For infrastructure, we have to make sure we can account for those extra cars on the road and extra schools and support systems. Also, education and mental health.
Would you have voted to put the Community Investment Tax on the ballot, and why?
Yes, I would have voted to put it on the ballot, because I think any opportunity for citizens and residents to have a choice in what happens with their tax dollars is better for the community. Many people don't want decisions made for them by politicians.
What attributes would you bring to the job that make you the best choice as a county commissioner?
I am well suited for business negotiations and understand contracts, having worked in business for well over 20 years. My extensive business background, teaching experience, community involvement and commitment to transparent governance make me the best choice for County Commissioner.
Hillsborough County: County Commissioner, District 6
Commissioners set and oversee a budget of roughly $9 billion, establish policies and adopt local ordinances. The annual salary is $120,164, and the job is a four-year term.
( ) Chris Boles (REP)
Hillsborough County firefighter charities director and union treasurer. Education: Bachelor's in fire administration, Columbia Southern University.
What are your top three priorities?
1) Focus on and elevate the status of Hillsborough County's public safety issues. 2) Dedicate the necessary resources in the East and South county to maximize the efficiency and handling of the exploding growth in those areas. 3) Enhancing our infrastructure by improving our roads and water sources and when possible considering other projects, like increasing our greenways.
Why are you running?
I believe voters are ready for a change from career politicians. We need more career public servants like myself. I would like to rescue Hillsborough County from wasteful spending by reducing and reprioritizing excessive expenditures in the budget. This strategy ensures our essential needs are met efficiently without burdening our residents with unnecessary increased taxes.
What, in your view, are the three most critical issues currently facing Hillsborough County?
I want to prioritize core government functions: supporting public safety by improving emergency response times and bolstering the Sheriff's efforts to put more deputies on the streets, developing sustainable infrastructure for growth, and enhancing roadways to ease congestion.
Would you have voted to put the Community Investment Tax on the ballot, and why?
I understand the need to address impactful issues sooner than later. I think it was the right decision to reaffirm an existing funding source. The CIT is vital for essential infrastructure projects like roads, schools, public safety facilities, and other capital needs. Without the CIT, other County projects and programs may be affected.
What attributes would you bring to the job that make you the best choice as a county commissioner?
As a 28 year veteran firefighter I have positively impacted thousands of lives across Hillsborough's diverse community. I have firsthand experience of the county's evolution of urban growth, worsening traffic challenges, and ongoing public safety concerns. I have saved lives, battled fires both figuratively and literally, and collaborated with leaders to prioritize public safety. My extensive real-life experiences uniquely qualify me to serve as County Commissioner.
( ) Sean Shaw (DEM)
Former state representative for District 61 and former Insurance Consumer Advocate appointee. Education: Bachelor's in politics, Princeton University; doctorate, UF Levin College of Law.
What are your top three priorities?
Transit, environment, affordable neighborhoods.
Why are you running?
I have spent my career putting people over politics to make our community better for Hillsborough families. As Florida's Insurance Consumer Advocate I protected homeowners from price gouging and fraud. As State Representative, I fought to increase funding for public schools while championing equal opportunity for all. I want to continue my public service and improve the lives of Hillsborough County residents all over the county.
What, in your view, are the three most critical issues currently facing Hillsborough County?
Improving transit options and reducing traffic; lack of affordable housing; addressing water infrastructure needs.
Would you have voted to put the Community Investment Tax on the ballot, and why?
I would have voted yes. The county does not have the necessary funds to address critical transportation infrastructure needs. In addition, over $800 million has been generated for public schools since the inception of the tax and has resulted in the construction of several new schools. Without the CIT, our schools would be experiencing severe overcrowding.
What attributes would you bring to the job that make you the best choice as a county commissioner?
Experience. I have served in the State Legislature. In addition, I chaired the IOC which was created when the prior transit tax was passed. I also served on the County Charter Review Commission. Even after my elected service, I continued to be very active in the community through service on the Hillsborough Education Foundation, Urban League of Hillsborough County, and others.
Hillsborough County: School Board Member, District 7
The seven board members serve staggered four-year terms and oversee policy and budget for the state’s third-largest school district. They are also tasked with hiring the superintendent. The board consists of at-large seats selected by all voters, and others chosen by voters in geographic districts. All board positions are nonpartisan, and members earn $50,492.
( ) Karen Bendorf
Middle school teacher, wife of pastor, mother of six. Education: Bachelor's in secondary social science education, Alabama State University.
What are your top three priorities?
1. Empowering parents by ensuring they are aware of what their children are learning and exposed to in the classroom and by ensuring accountability for student behavior and expectations. 2. Improving literacy by instructing children using scientifically based reading disciplines and practices. 3. Accountability in and wise stewardship of the over $4 billion-dollar budget.
Why are you running?
I care for children and want to see them reach their potential. Being on the front lines every day, I see they lack the basic skills and disciplines to be good readers and writers. They are missing the foundational building blocks to be logical thinkers and independent learners. I am also concerned about dangerous behaviors that go unaddressed in our classrooms. Students need to be accountable for their behavioral choices, and good teachers and administrators need to feel supported to do that.
Do you support the proposed 1-mill property tax to support teacher pay? Why or why not?
No. The current proposed 1-mill property tax would merely provide teachers a bonus structure increase in pay that would be separate from their salary. I think, instead, teachers should receive an actual salary increase with the funds we already have in our current $4.4B budget. That would provide a permanent salary raise independent of an increase in taxes or a vote every 4 years.
How do you feel about Hillsborough's closing of six schools?
When schools are well under capacity and failing the students who attend, they are not serving their purpose. It is better for the enrolled students to be included in schools where they can have their educational needs met. The Hillsborough County School Board has a responsibility to ensure the learning and wellbeing of their students is a priority over keeping a building site in operation just because of its location.
Why do you think Hillsborough had more D and F schools in 2023 than all other districts?
Hillsborough has more D and F schools than any other district for more than one reason. The most crucial: We are not teaching students to read well. As a kindergarten teacher, I saw firsthand that the programs and procedures used were inadequate and even negligent. This is not a reflection on the incredibly hard working, loving and dedicated teachers. Rather it is a result of a misunderstanding of how students learn to read and the practices those teachers were trained in and required to use.
What would you tell a parent who moves their child from a low-scoring district school into a charter?
It is so important for parents to have options for their children to be able to escape failing schools. Parents should be able to make the decision about what is best for their child's education.
( ) Lynn Gray
Former teacher in public and private schools, now School Board member. Education: Bachelor's in education, USF; master's in educational leadership, Nova Southeastern University.
What are your top three priorities?
The safety and mental well-being for all students, the financial stability of our school district, and education which matches our diverse population.
Why are you running?
To continue my work with staff and community leaders on the committees I formed during my 8-year tenure: Hispanic Forum, African American Task Force, Hillsborough Healthy Schools, Student Online Safety, and the Human Trafficking Committee. I believe our student diversity must be matched with curriculum, initiatives, and policies that reflect the cultural aspects and mental health needs of our students. Also to continue striving to increase pay and benefits for our teachers and staff.
Do you support the proposed 1-mill property tax to support teacher pay? Why or why not?
Yes. There is the growing disparity of pay in proportion to the cost of living and actual workload teachers have. Increased pay will help meet the challenges of attracting effective new and experienced teachers plus retaining them. As a former teacher and instructional leader of many years, teachers are the central key of student success. Most work beyond their school day; and now have two or three jobs to supplement their income. To this end, I concur with putting it on the ballot.
How do you feel about Hillsborough's closing of six schools?
We should have closed years ago when our fund balance was lowered to 3% in 2017. In 2018, I proposed a referendum to take care of years of delayed maintenance which our capital funds could not address. After COVID, HCPS leadership shared the glaring reality of low student populations in many of our schools. Our transportation, social & emotional services, nurses, teachers, and other human resources were and are currently draining our reserves.
Why do you think Hillsborough had more D and F schools in 2023 than all other districts?
Two central reasons shared by districts all over the nation is that of student chronic absenteeism and lack of certified teachers. Thirteen % of our students are English language learners. This language disparity is amplified by little if any phonetic and reading practice at home. On top of that, Hillsborough County Public Schools over the last 2 years have more than 1,800 immigrants, 2,000 migrants both groups having little if any English language acquisition. Lack of language directly influences state test scores.
What would you tell a parent who moves their child from a low-scoring district school into a charter?
Check this basic list which all school models should have: 1) Certified and experienced teachers and leadership team; 2) wrap-around social services; 3) student resources to match school's specialty, i.e. up-to-date equipment for STEM instruction; 4) professional development for teachers; 5) safety and security standards; 6) a code of student conduct; 7) parent-teacher organization; 8) if applicable, provisions for free and reduced price lunch, exceptional student education and transportation.
Pinellas County: County Commissioner, District 1
Pinellas commissioners serve four-year terms and oversee a budget of nearly $4 billion. Some seats on the seven-member commission are at-large districts, which means all voters in the county can vote for these seats, while others are in single-member districts. The annual salary is $119,439.
( ) Chris Scherer (REP)
Founded Scherer Development in 1999, first-time candidate for office and 30-year Pinellas resident. Education: Bachelor's in finance, Texas A&M University.
What are your top three priorities?
First, we need to rebuild our environmental infrastructure. Wastewater treatment plant spills and stormwater runoff are destroying Tampa Bay, our intercoastal waterways and our beloved beaches. Second, it's time to cut real estate taxes. Pinellas County is no longer an affordable community, in large part due to excessive real estate taxes. Third, let's reduce the bureaucratic red tape required to operate businesses, open new businesses and build new housing.
Why are you running?
I'm running for the Pinellas County Commission because I want to improve and protect our environment and water quality, rebuild our environmental infrastructure, reduce red tape and taxes on small businesses to make Pinellas more affordable, increase our supply of housing, expand vocational training, and work to solve our homelessness problem humanely.
What's your view on the Rays stadium and redevelopment proposal as currently drafted?
I wanted the Rays to stay in Pinellas and generally supported using the bed tax dollars toward the deal as the bed tax was created for this purpose. However I would have liked to see a better deal negotiated that included more safeguards to ensure the Rays deliver on their commitments. I also believe that the city and county could have negotiated for a large slice of the revenue pie.
Name one thing Pinellas County government is doing well and one area where it could improve.
Our First responders, 911, EMS and Sunstar professionals do a first-class job protecting and ensuring the safety of our citizens! We must continue to provide abundant funding for these vital services. Our wastewater and stormwater systems have been ignored by our government for too long. These all-important environmental systems are failing to protect our waters and environment. The failure of these systems jeopardizes the health of our environment and our tourism industry.
What should the county do to help residents with rising costs, including on housing and groceries?
First, cut real estate taxes. High real estate taxes make the cost of housing, groceries and all other goods and services in Pinellas more expensive and less affordable. Next, reduce the bureaucratic red tape that stifles productivity gains, makes businesses less efficient, increases the cost of doing business and increases the cost of living for all Pinellas residents.
( ) Joanne "Cookie" Kennedy (DEM)
Pinellas native; 20-year Indian Rocks Beach City Commissioner, including mayor from 2018 to 2024. Education: Largo High School; bachelor's of science in public policy and administration, St. Petersburg College.
What are your top three priorities?
1) Beach renourishment is a first line of defense for public health and safety and #1 driver for tourism in Pinellas County with 35 miles of beachfront. 2) The affordability crisis, which includes all aspects of how it impacts residents of Pinellas. 3) Transportation. This includes resurfacing sidewalks and local roads and addressing mobility issues for those with special needs, the elderly, students and workforce. Finding solutions helps alleviate congestion, pollution and increases safety.
Why are you running?
Public service is a calling. It's more important than partisanship. It is envisioning, creating, and implementing policy for everyone, especially future generations. Most of my life has been spent in public service. My focus has been helping businesses thrive and improving the quality of life for citizens. The combination of being a business owner for 38 years, my experience and financial acumen serving in government gives me the ability to work on day one as a Pinellas County Commissioner.
What's your view on the Rays stadium and redevelopment proposal as currently drafted?
The Rays are the largest economic driver in the region and the Gas Plant Redevelopment is a once in a generation economic driver. The benefits create positive changes for future generations. The county's support for the Gas Plant is coming from tourist development taxes. This is a partnership between the Rays organization, Pinellas County and St. Petersburg. There is enough TDT funding to pay for the Gas Plant redevelopment and beach renourishment, an issue I have been passionately leading.
Name one thing Pinellas County government is doing well and one area where it could improve.
Pinellas County government does a great job and continues to look for measures to improve hurricane emergency preparedness with communication throughout the cities and sheriff involvement with latest information. As a mayor, I've been on the frontline during emergencies and experienced the role the county plays in keeping residents safe. The building services department needs improvement. Cutting red tape, quicker responses, and streamlining approvals and permits would improve cost efficiency.
What should the county do to help residents with rising costs, including on housing and groceries?
The county has been very focused on affordable housing and is currently revamping and simplifying the process for contractors and builders, which include affordable housing projects. I am in favor of these efforts. To help aid with affordability we need to improve engagement in the programs Pinellas County has to offer for training trade occupations. There is no regulatory authority to control food costs at the county level.
Pinellas County: County Commissioner, District 3
Pinellas commissioners serve four-year terms and oversee a budget of nearly $4 billion. Some seats on the seven-member commission are at-large districts, which means all voters in the county can vote for these seats, while others are in single-member districts. The annual salary is $119,439.
( ) Vince Nowicki (REP)
St. Petersburg real estate agent who has acted as conservative watchdog in local politics. Education: Some college. Dropped out to start working at his own business.
What are your top three priorities?
1. Term limits for our County Commission. 2. Taxes always vote to lower them. 3. Traditional values importance of faith, family and personal responsibility. Vince will fight to protect our conservative values and ensure that they are reflected in the policies and practices of Pinellas County.
Why are you running?
Trust in government is at an all-time low. I'm not afraid to challenge the status quo and the entrenched bureaucrats and fight for the people. Pinellas County residents need a fresh, objective and rational perspective from someone who has not been in the failing political system for decades.
What's your view on the Rays stadium and redevelopment proposal as currently drafted?
I'm skeptical and have questions. I'm looking forward to upcoming meetings.
Name one thing Pinellas County government is doing well and one area where it could improve.
Public safety and emergency management are going well. Permitting and building department need more transparency.
What should the county do to help residents with rising costs, including on housing and groceries?
Vote for Donald J. Trump for President.
( ) Charlie Justice (DEM)
Pinellas commissioner from St. Petersburg, former assistant director of leadership programming at USF St. Pete. Education: Associate's degree at St. Petersburg College, bachelor's from University of South Florida.
What are your top three priorities?
1. Respond to affordability issues. Pinellas has reduced the millage rate three out of the last four years. 2. Focus on local government functions. Fund infrastructure and public safety. 3. Enhance communities of need. Continue transformation of Lealman, Ridgecrest and Highpoint.
Why are you running?
I ran for this office because I believed then and I believe now that the work of local government is important work. We need to keep the focus on the work and not get dragged down into partisan bickering that dominates Washington and Tallahassee. My personal and professional history make me the right candidate for this office.
What's your view on the Rays stadium and redevelopment proposal as currently drafted?
The plan for the Gas Plant District has the potential to be a generational project. I supported using Tourist Tax Dollars to respond to the City's request for partnership.
Name one thing Pinellas County government is doing well and one area where it could improve.
Pinellas County budgets smartly. We focus on public safety, infrastructure and quality of life with our beautiful parks and beaches, including adding 226 acres of public green space in the last several years. We still need to find ways to improve traffic and transit. Our residents and visitors need to be able to traverse our county more easily.
What should the county do to help residents with rising costs, including on housing and groceries?
Pinellas has lowered the Countywide Property Tax Rate three out of the last four years. Pinellas has doubled the homestead exemption for low-income seniors. We have invested millions of Penny for Pinellas dollars into both apartment rental and home ownership opportunities. We have supported Feeding Tampa Bay, the Florida Dream Center, Hope Villages and the St. Pete Free Clinic in providing groceries for those in need.
Pinellas County: School Board Member, District 5
Pinellas’ seven-member school board oversees the budget and policies of the state's ninth-largest school district and appoints the superintendent. Board members serve staggered four-year terms and are paid $50,243 per year. The board consists of at-large seats selected by all voters, and others that are chosen by voters in geographic districts. All board positions are nonpartisan.
( ) Katie Blaxberg (NP)
Former legislative aide to state Rep. Chris Latvala, volunteer for PTA and charitable organizations. Education: Bachelor's in biomedical science, USF.
What are your top three priorities?
1. I am honored to have Sheriff Gualtieri's endorsement and I am confident that Pinellas is at the forefront of school safety initiatives. Mental health, resiliency and coping skills are crucial for student safety. Addressing cyberbullying and social media is a priority. 2. As a strong advocate for school choice, I aim to simplify the process for parents. 3. I want to ensure that teachers have the resources and support they need, including competitive salaries and a positive work environment.
Why are you running?
I am running for office because of my passion for education and community service. I believe in the importance of public education as the foundation for a successful society. I am committed to making positive changes within the district to ensure all students have the resources they need to succeed. With my skills and experience, I will advocate for ALL constituents and work collaboratively with board members to achieve the mission of Pinellas County Schools.
Do you support renewal of the local-option property tax? Why or why not?
I fully support the renewal. The referendum allows the district to recruit and retain high quality teachers and supports professional development. Funds from the referendum support teacher salaries, about 12% or $6,300. It strengthens vital reading, music and arts programs in addition to providing technology to students. In addition, the referendum funds field trips for thousands of students each year, exposing them to cultural arts and local museums.
What's your plan to change schedules so high schools start after 8:30 a.m.?
Having bus stops with elementary, middle, and high schools clustered together as efficiently as possible and staggering start times allows the district to be compliant with the new law starting in 2026. With the same number of buses and drivers, there would not be a need to purchase more buses or hire additional staff. This would also ensure the safety of younger elementary students, who would not be at bus stops when it's still dark outside.
What does the term "parental rights in education" mean to you?
Parents have the ultimate say in their children's education and should educate themselves on curriculum and maintain a collaborative relationship with teachers and administration. Seeking parental input and involvement improves schools and the district. It is important for parents and the board to work together to address issues and concerns. Public comments, televised meetings, transparency, consistent office hours and an open door policy are priorities to ensure parents can reach out.
( ) Stacy Geier (NP)
Business owner and first-time candidate. Education: Candidate did not provide education information, saying her focus has been on business development.
What are your top three priorities?
I will focus on improving proficiency in reading and math through ensuring our students have solid foundations in academics along with teaching critical thinking skills. I will work to provide resources and support to teachers to deal with behavioral issues so that instructional time is not disrupted in a recurring manner. It is important that our teachers have autonomy back in their classrooms so that they may creatively educate their students. I will continue to support trades programs.
Why are you running?
Strong community is important to me. I believe strong communities start with a solid education focused on the foundations of academics. Serving on the school board will allow me to use my experience as a business owner and home educator to improve our school system in a holistic way to benefit the community. I want to ensure that we are setting our students up to be successful citizens in Pinellas County.
Do you support renewal of the local-option property tax? Why or why not?
We are at a time where people are struggling to make ends meet. I am fully in support of what the funds would cover, but I believe any kind of increase like this should be decided by voters. Regardless of the outcome of the vote, I will dig deeper into the budget to determine where we can cut excess costs as well as work with the Board of County Commissioners to determine if there is another way to bring and distribute funds that won't negatively affect Pinellas County citizens.
What's your plan to change schedules so high schools start after 8:30 a.m.?
Changing bell schedules is a large undertaking that requires a thorough review of data to minimize negative effects of bell schedule changes to our families and budget. Once elected I will take a closer look at the data available to ensure the least amount of disruption to our families and resources. My tentative thought is to shift all tiers to 20 minutes later, move elementary to tier 1, high school to tier 2 and keep middle school at tier 3, which will keep us compliant.
What does the term "parental rights in education" mean to you?
I agree with the wording from House Joint Resolution 38 to explain parental rights as, "The liberty of parents to direct the upbringing, education, and care of their children is a fundamental right." Parents know what's best for their children. However, I believe Pinellas County parents, teachers and administration have been divided and I will encourage open discussion. We need to work together for the benefit of the children and I believe parents should be involved in the educational process.
Pinellas County: St. Petersburg City Council Member, District 3
The City Council is the legislative arm of the city. There are eight seats. One member is elected from each of the city’s eight election districts for a four-year term. Council members are limited to two consecutive terms. In October, the job will pay an annual salary of $67,275.
( ) Mike Harting
Thirty-year hospitality career with Outback and Bella Brava and created 3 Daughters Brewing in 2013. Education: Bachelor's in finance, UF.
What are your top three priorities?
1. Make neighborhoods safe and affordable again. 2. Attract great paying jobs for a thriving economy. 3. Enhance and repair our infrastructure and amenities and protect our environment.
Why are you running?
I'm focused on what St. Petersburg will look like in the future. I want the next City Council to prioritize spending to have a maximum impact on city residents. This means ensuring a great economic climate that attracts quality jobs, improving our infrastructure and making workforce housing more affordable.
What's your view on the Rays stadium and redevelopment proposal as currently drafted?
If I were on the Council now, I would support the deal, too. However, it needs to be negotiated further. I want the commitments outlined in the deal to be more clearly defined and for the city to be able to enforce them.
List one thing Mayor Welch's administration handled well and one where it could improve.
As the lead on the stadium deal, the administration should have negotiated a more equitable deal for the citizens of St Petersburg. The mayor's efforts with youth programs are commendable. The partnerships with Men in the Making, My Brothers Keepers and others are bearing fruit, and the St. Pete Youth Internship program is a huge success.
Rising costs are pricing some out of St. Petersburg. How should this be addressed?
Overhaul the building permit process in St. Pete. The current delays are a major cost driver. We need to sell surplus city land to develop workforce housing, and we should reduce spending so that we can reduce property taxes. In short, we need to explore more public/private ventures to help offset the high cost of building materials and labor.
( ) Pete Boland
St. Petersburg native and restaurateur who finished fifth in the 2021 St. Petersburg mayoral race. Education: Studied at St. Petersburg College and College of Central Florida; culinary student at the Art Institute of Tampa.
What are your top three priorities?
Our three top priorities will be to oversee infrastructure improvements in flood-prone areas like my neighborhood in Shore Acres, cut red tape regulatory barriers to small businesses & new home construction, and to rein in spending and improve government efficiency and accountability wherever possible in the city's budget.
Why are you running?
I'm running out of a sense of responsibility to my colleagues, neighbors, fellow natives, fellow residents and small business community. I want to improve our business climate and be a champion for small business. I want to fight for storm water & infrastructure improvements to flood-prone neighborhoods like Shore Acres. I want to inspire greater civic pride and community involvement and to put St. Pete first. I want to bring commonsense good governance to city hall and get things done.
What's your view on the Rays stadium and redevelopment proposal as currently drafted?
This proposal is one of the better stadium deals currently in America. The upside for this project is immense. It will keep Major League Baseball in St Pete and add thousands of jobs, hundreds of affordable housing units and many great amenities like a convention space, hotels and more. All without raising taxes, retaining ownership of the stadium site, reducing our subsidy and activating an entire neighborhood. We can't let perfect be the enemy of good in this deal.
List one thing Mayor Welch's administration handled well and one where it could improve.
Mayor Welch and his administration handled the response to Hurricane Idalia quite well. The city responded swiftly and has since taken advanced action to improve infrastructure and communicate to all affected residents. An area they could improve with is reeling in the bureaucracy. We need less mid level six-figure administrators, not more. I'd like to see a leaner and more efficient executive branch.
Rising costs are pricing some out of St. Petersburg. How should this be addressed?
Inflation is a national problem, but we do have a unique problem with attainable housing due to our success and geography. Our city needs to reduce barriers and continue to build more housing & protect existing housing stock. We need more accessory dwelling units and to up-zone. We also must remove red tape so new projects are more affordable to build & launch. An improved business climate will increase prosperity and outpace the pain wrought by inflation.
Pinellas County: St. Petersburg City Council Member, District 5
The City Council is the legislative arm of the city. There are eight seats. One member is elected from each of the city’s eight election districts for a four-year term. Council members are limited to two consecutive terms. In October, the job will pay an annual salary of $67,275.
( ) Torrie Jasuwan
St. Petersburg native, small business owner and advocate working to eradicate the tax on diapers. Education: Studied at the University of North Florida, USF and Bob Hogue School of Real Estate.
What are your top three priorities?
Increasing budget accountability: Overpriced development deals like the Deuces townhomes should not be approved. Bringing transparency and civility to council: As a small business owner I have learned that being civil and able to communicate with peers is imperative to succeed. Better affordable housing: Choosing the right developers who build at market to save money for taxpayers and increasing income maximums on programs like down payment assistance to keep up with rising costs of living.
Why are you running?
As a native I chose to move back to my hometown. It's important to me that our city keeps improving so my children will be able to afford to live and work here. I have been a child poverty and diaper need advocate for over a decade. Working at a state level, most recently working to pass House Bill 7063 to eradicate the tax on diapers and being a part of successfully making diapers tax free in our state, made me realize I held the power to bring positive change to our city.
What's your view on the Rays stadium and redevelopment proposal as currently drafted?
I love the Rays and I am glad they are staying in St. Pete. I do feel the deal could have been better negotiated for the citizens, but the deal is done so we need to move forward. My top priority is to make sure we hold both sides, the city and the Rays, accountable to what is promised. We just saw what happened with the city bonuses -- we need to make sure every step taken is in the public eye and offers full transparency.
List one thing Mayor Welch's administration handled well and one where it could improve.
Mayor Welch and his administration have done a great job to support our growing and vibrant arts community -- specifically the Warehouse Arts District. They worked well with the state and Sen. Rouson to bring money back to the arts community from Tallahassee. The biggest thing that needs to improved is the level of transparency and communication from the mayor and his administration, not only to the public, but also to city council.
Rising costs are pricing some out of St. Petersburg. How should this be addressed?
We need to make sure our tax dollars are spent wisely. As property taxes increase with property values, if we keep a careful eye on spending, we could consider millage rollbacks to keep property taxes lower. By streamlining the building permit process and relaxing restrictions on Additional Dwelling Units we can create more affordable housing. More workforce housing for first responders, teachers, nurses and city employees could allow those working for us to afford living in our community.
( ) Deborah Figgs-Sanders
Current council chairperson, past executive director of the Childs Park YMCA and lifelong resident. Education: Associate's, St. Petersburg Junior College; bachelor's, FAMU; master of business administration, University of Phoenix.
What are your top three priorities?
Housing, infrastructure and economic & workforce development
Why are you running?
Serving in an elected role requires commitment, fortitude and patience. The logistics of navigating policy change in local government is not a simple or swift process. In my experience, the better the communication and professional relationships, the more accomplished a council member will be. I have forged those relationships built on trust and hard work. I am excited to continue to accomplish impactful changes such as the Community Benefits Agreement, Hidden Voices Project and the SunRunner.
What's your view on the Rays stadium and redevelopment proposal as currently drafted?
Although all components of the contract negotiations were not to my desired standards or wishes, after reviewing my perspectives of the Gas Plant Project, the pros outweigh the cons and the future benefits from the development substantially benefit the Gas Plant descendants and all constituents of our great city!
List one thing Mayor Welch's administration handled well and one where it could improve.
Done well - I really do appreciate the mayor's initiatives and commitment to create a more unified, progressive and welcoming city. An area of improvement could be found in better communication, specifically issues of major impact to the city overall.
Rising costs are pricing some out of St. Petersburg. How should this be addressed?
I do appreciate all of the current housing initiatives by this administration and previous others. As a lifelong resident and mother of three, the amount of population growth experienced by our city has hit close to home by outpricing my own family and friends. However, in my position I have acknowledged that more housing quantity is the key. Increasing the number of affordable/accessible housing stock will provide more rental and home ownership opportunities.
Pinellas County: St. Petersburg City Council Member, District 7
The City Council is the legislative arm of the city. There are eight seats. One member is elected from each of the city’s eight election districts for a four-year term. Council members are limited to two consecutive terms. In October, the job will pay an annual salary of $67,275.
( ) Corey Givens Jr.
Former Pinellas County School Board candidate in 2012 and 2020 and St. Petersburg City Council candidate in 2017 and 2022. Education: Bachelor's in mass communications, USF; graduate student, B-CU.
What are your top three priorities?
Keep our streets safe, support parents and our schools and increase affordable housing.
Why are you running?
This is personal for me. St. Pete voters deserve a leader who can forge alliances and reach consensus. They deserve someone dependable who understands how to pick their battles. I am running because I have the energy and the experience needed to build bridges that bring people together.
What's your view on the Rays stadium and redevelopment proposal as currently drafted?
As a descendant of the Gas Plant District, it's important that we get this deal right the first time around. I love baseball and I'm a huge fan of the Rays. In this deal, the Rays bear that cost for the new stadium, relieving the city of that financial burden.
List one thing Mayor Welch's administration handled well and one where it could improve.
Mayor Welch has handled funding and supporting environmental resiliency and sustainability well. He could do better on homelessness and public safety.
Rising costs are pricing some out of St. Petersburg. How should this be addressed?
I have new ideas and new solutions for making housing attainable for all. They include renovating dilapidated old buildings, increasing the number of ancillary dwelling units, updating zoning regulations where appropriate to increase housing density, using tax credits, establishing a housing trust fund and utilizing land grants to lower the cost of developments.
( ) Wengay "Newt" Newton
Former St. Petersburg City Council member for District 7 and former Florida House representative. Education: Associate's in electronic engineering, ITT Technical Institute.
What are your top three priorities?
1. Living wage jobs. I support good paying jobs recognizing the plight of the working poor. 2. Attainable housing and affordable home ownership, equity and generational wealth (using programs such as) Habitat for Humanity and Live Local Act. 3. Environment: mitigation of sea level rise and flooding in our low-lying areas like Snell Isle and Shore Acres.
Why are you running?
I am the only candidate with proven legislative experience. I return to St. Petersburg with the relationships and bridges that I have built to move our city forward while improving our relationship with Tallahassee.
What's your view on the Rays stadium and redevelopment proposal as currently drafted?
The Tampa Bay Rays are a regional asset that I have been personally involved with since 2008. By the time I take office this will be a done deal. The current contract expires in 2027, for this new contract I would have retained a Major League Baseball attorney to ensure that the taxpayer got a fair and equitable share of all revenues to pay down the debt for the new stadium.
List one thing Mayor Welch's administration handled well and one where it could improve.
Mayor Welch is doing a great job of running the city, according to WalletHub. Moffitt Cancer Center in St. Petersburg: Having a world-class cancer center here would have created hundreds of constructions and sustained living wage jobs. Not to mention, $6 million for city and $10 million for the county of unencumbered recurring revenue. With an interlocal agreement with the county, the mayor would have had $16 million in the budget every year to address our attainable housing situation.
Rising costs are pricing some out of St. Petersburg. How should this be addressed?
Create public private partnership with Habitat for Humanity and developers using the Live Local Act. To ensure people have options and don't get displaced.
Pasco County: Superintendent of Schools
For the first time in more than a decade, Superintendent Kurt Browning isn’t seeking reelection. Pasco voters will get to choose someone new to take the helm of the state’s 10th-largest school district. The job pays $172,928 annually. Of the state’s 67 school districts, 41 elect their superintendent.
( ) John M. Legg (REP)
Former state representative and senator from New Port Richey, Dayspring Academy co-founder. Education: Bachelor's in social work, master's in public administration and doctorate in education, USF.
What are your top three priorities?
1. Improve student success. In 2024, Pasco schools were below the state average in every grade level for both literacy and math. In many marginalized communities, fewer than 1 in 5 kids were on grade level. We must do better. 2. Expand career-connected learning pathways. Education is not one-size-fits-all. Students need rigorous, practical options like early college, trade and technical Schools, arts and teacher academies, and STEAM/STEM programs. 3. Increase school and classroom autonomy.
Why are you running?
To ensure every child gains the knowledge and skills they need to lead a fulfilling life, bring value to their community, and engage with the world around them. This is education. We achieve this by preparing Pasco students for the jobs of today and tomorrow. I have been an educator for over 25 years, I co-founded the #1 ranked public school in the Tampa Bay area (k12.niche.com), and I want to apply what I've learned at the County level, so more students can succeed in school and life.
How can schools keep enough aides in classrooms?
We need to make it as easy as safely possible for parents to be consistently engaged in the classroom. Parent involvement is crucial, but there is more we can do. We can employ parent-to-para recruitment models. We can leverage federal, state, and local resources to target instructional assistance to the highest need schools and classrooms. We can prioritize classroom instructional spending over ineffective administrative waste and overhead.
How can the district improve student literacy achievement?
We focus on the science of reading: phonics, phonemic awareness, vocabulary, and fluency. Kids need to engage with, decipher, and comprehend content-rich text. To get there we create literacy pathways by screening early, monitoring regularly, and building a custom plan for every student. At the same time, we supply teachers with the right resources and training to deliver research-backed instruction and expand the New Worlds Reading Initiative, which provides free books to low-income families.
Why does Pasco County need an elected superintendent?
An elected superintendent is accountable directly to the people, so they are more responsive to the needs of the community. Across the country, there is high turnover in appointed superintendents, which can undermine the ability to affect change. In Pasco, we have had a stable administration and school board, free from significant internal strife, which has helped us avoid the unnecessary acrimony that plagues many school board meetings throughout Florida and the country.
( ) Christopher M. Dunning (NP)
High school principal, Pasco district employee for 30 years. County principal of the year, 2024. Education: Bachelor's in elementary education, master's and doctorate in educational leadership, USF.
What are your top three priorities?
1. We must improve our culture, so all staff feel supported & appreciated. This will help us retain great employees & fill our openings. 2. Student learning must increase from our students who have fallen behind to those who are exceeding expectations, along with everyone in-between. We must also provide more opportunities for the arts, STEM, & career education at every level. 3. Set higher expectations for students & implement strategies to aid staff in creating a positive learning environment.
Why are you running?
My experiences have prepared me to lead our schools. I have spent more than 30 years as a teacher, elementary principal, middle school principal, high school principal, chief negotiator for the district, and a member of the superintendent's cabinet. Currently, I am the Pasco County Principal of the Year at a technical high, the highest-scoring high school in our county. I have successfully raised both our most impoverished and affluent schools. We need an actual educator to lead our system.
How can schools keep enough aides in classrooms?
To fill and retain classroom aides, we need to offer competitive salaries, improve the work environment, provide recognition, and offer professional development and career ladder opportunities. This approach will help us employ and retain a motivated workforce of aides. At the same time, I want to review staffing formulas and consult with primary teachers to determine if reducing class sizes would have a greater impact.
How can the district improve student literacy achievement?
Early literacy is one of my priorities, detailed on my website, drdunning4pasco.com. The district should support every child from birth to age 5 by giving parents the knowledge and books to help their child at every stage. We need to train all teachers in effective literacy techniques so they can support literacy, regardless of what they teach. Additionally, we must provide personalized support through targeted interventions for students at every level.
Why does Pasco County need an elected superintendent?
Pasco County needs an elected superintendent to ensure the leader is someone who knows and cares about our community. An elected superintendent is accountable to the residents, understands local needs, and is committed to improving our schools. This approach fosters transparency, community involvement, and trust, ensuring that decisions made are in the best interest of our students and families. It also gives the people a voice when choosing their educational leader.
Pasco County: County Commissioner, District 1
Commissioners serve staggered four-year terms and make policy decisions and set the county’s $2.1 billion budget. There are five members on the commission, and the annual salary is $109,287.
( ) Ronald E. Oakley (REP)
Full time county commissioner seeking third term, former citrus farmer. Education: Bachelor's in accounting, Carson-Newman College.
What are your top three priorities?
Paving and better roads in the county, having a venue in East Pasco similar to the Fasano Shelter on the west side that would also serve as a venue year round.
Why are you running?
I would like the county to look better in the future as it is growing and to keep the rural nature of the county which has been very near and dear to my heart. I am not a politician, but I am a servant to all the residents of Pasco County.
If the Legislature provided money to fix one infrastructure issue for the county, which should it be?
To have a venue for East Pasco County is a big issue and would provide shelter during bad weather and would be there for those folks in our region.
How should Pasco address resiliency, given the vulnerability in coastal and low-lying areas?
We must ensure Pasco is positioned to prepare for a bounce back from anything that may impact our services. We need to identify vulnerabilities within our critical assets to extreme weather and other natural hazards across our entire community.
Why are you a better choice than your opponent(s)?
As a lifelong resident I know the issues facing our county and my district moving into the future. I have been here since 1945.
Existing residents say their needs don't get the same consideration as new development. How do you respond?
We provide services equal to every resident in Pasco County and the fact that we need better roads addresses the big issue in the county.
( ) Lisa Moretti (NP)
Writer and community activist, founding member of the Pasco Communities Network. Education: Bachelor's degree in sociology, University of California Los Angeles.
What are your top three priorities?
1. Stop irresponsible growth with a county-wide homebuilding moratorium. Set a growth rate. Adhere to our codes and plans rather than constantly changing them. 2. Increase transparency. Review our existing land use guidelines and ensure that we preserve and protect our natural resources, especially regarding wetlands, wildlife & water. 3. Respect for people who live here! Establish a 5 p.m. hearing (FL 125.66). Commission decisions affect our quality of life & taxes often in life-altering ways.
Why are you running?
After years of trying to make change along with other residents, I decided I needed to run. Currently, Pasco residents feel overrun, overcrowded, overtaxed, and OVER IT! I realized that in 4 more years, this county could be paved over with no clean drinking water, no infrastructure, no wildlife, no agriculture, no green spaces or tree groves, no shoreline, and no middle class because people can't afford to stay if we don't make changes now.
If the Legislature provided money to fix one infrastructure issue for the county, which should it be?
Our roadways. Because we defer impact fees for developers and waive taxes for them, we have not been able to keep up with our roads, etc. Lagging infrastructure is a frustrating problem for our residents for example many of our roads are in bad shape, our residents are stuck in snarled traffic, and our leaders are focused on new roads in incongruent areas rather than where true need exists. Adding a new ad valorem tax was not the best solution.
How should Pasco address resiliency, given the vulnerability in coastal and low-lying areas?
Our county is at great risk, especially as untreated runoff floods/dumps into waterways and the gulf. Our culverts and wastewater systems are compromised. Irresponsible sprawl taxes our springs and recharge areas, bringing even more saltwater intrusion. We need timely payment of impact fees by developers for our infrastructure across the county and to protect our coastline. We need to preserve our environment, including our wetlands, the kidneys of our water resources, and our flooding buffers.
Why are you a better choice than your opponent(s)?
My opponent's voting record speaks for itself. He has approved the irresponsible growth that has created cookie-cutter sprawl without considering all of our residents, farming and agricultural culture, small towns, wildlife and open spaces, or protected rural areas. It's time for fresh eyes, fresh ideas, and old-fashioned respect for our residents.
Existing residents say their needs don't get the same consideration as new development. How do you respond?
Existing residents of Pasco are correct; they are ignored and marginalized. Monthly, developers have a roundtable with planning to state their needs. Residents no longer have a roundtable even having asked to have it reinstated for years. Residents are also not recognized as stakeholders. Further, BOCC meetings on Tuesdays at 1:30 PM are untenable for working people and exclude them from engaging in local government.
Pasco County: County Commissioner, District 3
Commissioners serve staggered four-year terms and make policy decisions and set the county’s $2.1 billion budget. There are five members on the commission, and the annual salary is $109,287. Starkey faces one qualified write-in candidate, Janine Duffy, whose name will not be on the ballot.
( ) Kathryn E. Starkey (REP)
Pasco County commissioner; public servant with decades of experience on several Florida councils and boards. Education: Starkey said she attended FSU and schools in Europe but did not specify degrees obtained.
What are your top three priorities?
Manage the challenges of our rapidly growing county with respect to quality development and job creation. Implement regional transportation solutions. Protect and enhance our open spaces.
Why are you running?
I believe my experience and commitment as a full-time commissioner give me the qualifications and ability to handle the tough requirements of this job. I have a passion to make Pasco a premier county.
If the Legislature provided money to fix one infrastructure issue for the county, which should it be?
My priority would be to invest in building and improving our transportation network. Enhancing transportation infrastructure is essential to accommodate growth and improve the quality of life for our residents.
How should Pasco address resiliency, given the vulnerability in coastal and low-lying areas?
We need to look at the living shorelines and move important assets like water treatment facilities away from the coast.
Why are you a better choice than your opponent(s)?
A county commissioner's job is complex and takes years to understand and address challenges with water, transportation, growth management and public safety. I have demonstrated leadership by being elected to the Florida Association of Counties and the National Association of Counties. I've built relationships at state and federal levels that will benefit Pasco County. With 30 years of community service on nonprofit and government boards, I'm committed to making it a premier county.
Existing residents say their needs don't get the same consideration as new development. How do you respond?
As a commissioner, I strive to balance the property rights of developers with the needs and opinions of existing residents. Ensuring equitable consideration for all is a constant challenge we address diligently.
Pasco County: County Commissioner, District 4
Commissioners serve staggered four-year terms and make policy decisions and set the county’s $2.1 billion budget. There are five members on the commission, and the annual salary is $109,287.
( ) Lisa M. Yeager (REP)
Appointed to county commission, wife of State Rep. Brad Yeager, sister of former Rep. Chris Sprowls. Education: Graduate Tarpon Springs High School and some classes taken at St. Petersburg College.
What are your top three priorities?
We deserve safe neighborhoods, and an amazing place to retire, work and raise a family. I want to ensure that Pasco County's law enforcement has the resources they need to keep our neighborhoods safe. We have many hard-working families that are struggling, and I will work every day to alleviate the pains of inflation by making Pasco County affordable, all while making sure that Pasco is the best place to live, work and play.
Why are you running?
I believe that people deserve to have a fighter working for them every day in public office. I am that fighter. I will ask tough questions; I will say what I mean and do what I say. I have spent over 20 years involved in the local community and have strived to make Pasco County a better place to live and work. As your county commissioner, I will never stop fighting for what residents expect - safe streets, smarter and small government, and economic opportunity for all.
Existing residents say their needs don't get the same consideration as new development. How do you respond?
Our residents deserve the full attention of their commissioners. Whether that is helping with a local neighborhood issue, or stewarding smart-growth on their behalf. My promise is simple- I will work hard every day on behalf of our families, to find the right answer to our most pressing challenges, and then fix them. Along the way I relish the opportunity to hear directly from residents about what they want the future of Pasco County to look like.
If the Legislature provided money to fix one infrastructure issue for the county, which should it be?
Investing in our roadways is the most effective way the legislature can assist Pasco County in serving our residents and stewarding the challenges that come along with growth, like increased traffic which makes our lives more difficult, costly and frustrating. Smart investments in our roads will help to alleviate some of those challenges. These investments should take into account how best to decrease traffic but also be poised to be navigable in the event of serious storms and flooding.
How should Pasco address resiliency, given the vulnerability in coastal and low-lying areas?
Pasco County should avail ourselves of the Always Ready Resiliency Infrastructure grants signed by Governor Desantis that will assist our community in combating flooding. The legislature has invested hundreds of millions of dollars across the state to make our neighborhoods more resilient to these threats. Pasco must step up to better protect our residences and businesses from the threats of flooding by partnering with the state to upgrade our infrastructure.
Why are you a better choice than your opponent(s)?
I am a fighter who knows how to get things done. I've worked with some of our most vulnerable residents and children to help them find pathways to prosperity. I understand what it is like to raise a family in this community and face affordability challenges, educational challenges, and the hard work it takes to start a business. With me the residents of Pasco County will have a personal advocate for their families, one that is determined to make the difference.
( ) Daniel Ackroyd-Isales (DEM)
Software engineer and single father, advocates for responsible governance and ethical leadership. Education: Bachelor's in computer science, Princeton University.
What are your top three priorities?
Supervised and responsible growth policies that ensure that existing residents are provided for, ethical governance and a rejection of gifts and other items of value that could lead to conflicts of interest, and evidence-based programs for improving the welfare of every county resident.
Why are you running?
I'm running because I believe that Pasco County deserves better. My commitment to my values and my position as an outsider to the county's politics means I can make a difference in promoting ethical, sane, and citizen-oriented governance.
If the Legislature provided money to fix one infrastructure issue for the county, which should it be?
The most important infrastructure issue is our water utilities. We need investments in more efficient water usage, limits on new structures with water demands, and long-term planning and preparations that will help Pasco County thrive for years to come as climate change contributes to more extreme natural conditions.
How should Pasco address resiliency, given the vulnerability in coastal and low-lying areas?
Pasco County needs to embrace the potential for renewable energy and sustainable development practices. We also need to make thoughtful preparations for the tumultuous years ahead. The more residents can shop, source, and sell locally, the better. Our resilience depends on our ability to care for our own needs and lessen our dependence on larger private and public resources and organizations, for our long-term benefit.
Why are you a better choice than your opponent(s)?
I'm a better choice because I'm an outsider and a change agent in same old, same old local politics. If elected, I promise to serve my constituents in a way that they can be proud of, and defend values like honesty and decency against corruption.
Existing residents say their needs don't get the same consideration as new development. How do you respond?
I believe this is all too likely to be true in a local government dominated by Republican machine politics, and that supporting Democrats and community organizing is the way to promote the kind of change we need as a county.
Pasco County: County Commissioner, District 5
Commissioners serve staggered four-year terms and make policy decisions and set the county’s $2.1 billion budget. There are five members on the commission, and the annual salary is $109,287.
( ) Jack Mariano (REP)
A Massachusetts native in Florida since 1991 and a commissioner since 2004. Education: Bachelor's degree in economics, focus on management, business and finance, Framingham State College.
What are your top three priorities?
Infrastructure, economic development and public safety are my top 3 priorities. We are No. 1 in commercial growth in the nation. The Tampa region is third in the state in residential growth. Our strategic plan pushes to bring opportunities home and to make Pasco a "premier County". Years ago, ee were criticized for having the highest impact fees on development. We are now praised for having funding for roads, schools, parks, libraries and utilities.
Why are you running?
Jack Mariano has the experience, institutional knowledge, proven track record, ability to work well with colleagues, passion to fight for his constituents and projects and the passion to serve the citizens of Pasco at a level that none of his opponents can match. Jack Mariano has abilities that bring people together to get things done.
Existing residents say their needs don't get the same consideration as new development. How do you respond?
Our commission always listens to the residents especially when it comes to development. Developers/property owners have rights that we have to respect as well. On land use decisions we have a lot of flexibility on deciding if we want to grant an application. I don't know of a commission more engaged with its citizens. There have been many times at the public hearing we have had developers modify their plans to accommodate the wishes of the local residents.
If the Legislature provided money to fix one infrastructure issue for the county, which should it be?
If we had only one infrastructure project to fund, it would be the intersection of U.S. 41 and S.R. 54. It is a regional road that is justifiable to be completed. I am hopeful that on our northern side that County Line Road which will benefit Hernando and Pasco will be done soon as well.
How should Pasco address resiliency, given the vulnerability in coastal and low-lying areas?
We are in the process of doing an assessment which will lead to many grant funding opportunities. We are looking at recommendations allowing citizens to raise seawalls higher and possibly having projects that can coordinate an easier way to get all those along the same canal to be done at the same time in one project. We are looking at helping the power station at Anclote to be raised up higher, hospitals and other critical facilities to be more resilient.
Why are you a better choice than your opponent(s)?
I am running again because I love Pasco County and I want to continue to improve the quality of life for all it citizens. I am proud of how the commission has worked to deal with the growth pressures and our citizens' desires to live in a premier county. It takes time to bring projects to completion and experience and cooperation with colleagues to get things done. I am proud what we have accomplished and excited about the future!
( ) Thomas A. Celotto (NP)
Former board president of Leadership Pasco, runs IT consulting service Micro Solutions. Education: Associate's in science, former Tampa Technical Institute.
What are your top three priorities?
We have the highest tax budget in the history of the county with no accountability where the excess funds are going. Stop raising taxes. Trim spending. We are destroying our rural communities to big developers. Development is happening without the proper infrastructure. We need to slow growth and prioritize infrastructure. Supporting law enforcement agencies and providing necessary resources for public safety.
Why are you running?
To bring a fiscally conservative perspective and a passion for community service to the forefront. (I have) deep roots in Pasco County and extensive experience in business and community service that inspires (me) to advocate for a responsible and prosperous future for our community.
If the Legislature provided money to fix one infrastructure issue for the county, which should it be?
Shady Hills Road is one of the most heavily traveled 2-lane roads in the county. Many Hernando County residents choosing to skip the toll use this road as a main travel path to Tampa. There are four schools on this road with no car lanes and limited sidewalks for children. Considering the safety of our families this road needs improving now.
How should Pasco address resiliency, given the vulnerability in coastal and low-lying areas?
It is my understanding that the county is working on assessing the issue and seeking some funding through grant money. Residents should be allowed to take the necessary steps to protect their homes without county restrictions. Any restrictions should be reviewed and modified to allow the resident to be less vulnerable and have peace of mind that their home is safe.
Why are you a better choice than your opponent(s)?
(I) will be a great County Commissioner because of (my) proven work ethic, and extensive community involvement. (I am) committed to bringing innovative solutions to Pasco County while maintaining the rural landscape our residents expect. (I am) dedicated to fiscal responsibility, public safety, and balanced growth. This is what makes (me) the ideal candidate to lead Pasco County into a brighter future.
Existing residents say their needs don't get the same consideration as new development. How do you respond?
(I) would agree that residents are not receiving the same consideration as developers. When (I am) elected, (I) will make it (my) mission to focus on critical issues that affect our county and how they impact the residents. (I) will be a voice for the residents of Pasco County.
Amendment 1
Amendment 1 would make school board races partisan. A yes vote would mean candidates would be listed with their political party for elections starting in 2026. A no vote would keep school board races nonpartisan.
( ) Yes on Amendment 1
( ) No on Amendment 1
Amendment 2
If passed, Amendment 2 would enshrine the right to hunt and fish in the Florida Constitution to be “preserved forever as a public right.” The amendment specifies that it wouldn’t limit the authority of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
( ) Yes on Amendment 2
( ) No on Amendment 2
Amendment 3
Amendment 3 would allow people 21 and older to smoke marijuana recreationally. If passed, adults could use up to three ounces of marijuana without criminal or civil penalty.
( ) Yes on Amendment 3
( ) No on Amendment 3
Amendment 4
Amendment 4 says that no law could “prohibit, penalize, delay or restrict” abortion before viability or when necessary to protect a patient’s health. If passed, it would override a Florida law that now bans most abortions after six weeks of pregnancy. The amendment specifies that it does not change the requirement that parents be notified before a minor has an abortion.
( ) Yes on Amendment 4
( ) No on Amendment 4
Amendment 5
If passed, Amendment 5 would require an annual inflation adjustment for homestead tax exemptions. The inflation adjustment would be based on the Consumer Price Index and could lead to a larger tax break if inflation increases. The change, if passed, would not affect taxes paid out to school districts.
( ) Yes on Amendment 5
( ) No on Amendment 5
Amendment 6
Amendment 6 would repeal a constitutional provision that provides public funds for candidates running for Florida governor or for Cabinet positions who agree to certain campaign finance spending limits.
( ) Yes on Amendment 6
( ) No on Amendment 6
