There will be a lot of local races on the ballot, this is a preview of what’s coming, but incomplete because the filing deadline has not been reached. The Iguana leans pro-Democratic because, well, history … Other candidates may still file, so that may force some primaries for August. Following are the probable ones for August.
If you are travelling this summer (or just don’t want to or can’t leave the house), it’s important to have an absentee ballot so your voice is heard.
Sheriff: The sheriff is now a DeSantis appointed Republican, Emery Gainey. Multiple Democrats are running, we like Chad Scott.
County Commission: Mary Alford has a Democratic challenger for County Commission District 1. We like Mary a lot!
School Board and City Commission: School Board and City Commission contested races are in August, not November. As of June 1, we like Thomas Vu and Leanetta McNealy for School Board, and James Ingle (in a big way), Cynthia Chestnut and Desmon Walker for City Commission.
State District 22: This is a big one on some people’s ballot. In that primary we favor Amy Trask as more electable in a tough District (see page 5).
The Alachua County Supervisor of Elections office is really helpful on line or in person. See votealachua.com or call 352-374-5252 for more information.