Voter Guide Leon County, Florida General Ballot Blog Nov 2022

 

Leon County, Florida General Ballot Blog November 2022

Don't forget to vote November 8, 2022

This is my take and observations on the candidates on my ballot. I include links where I can but really this is an exercise to help ME decide who to vote for. Hope it helps those others out there researching.

You wouldn't choose your brain surgeon based on personality, choose your government leader based on how they vote.

A few additional resources I like.

James Madison Institute Amendment Guide

ivoter guide - simple non-partisan summary based on your zip code (make sure you click the  2020 general election button on the right.

The Democrat Guide is OK but you can only view it a couple of times before they make you pay for it.

United States Senator - 

Marco Rubio (REP) -(my pick) -He consistently votes as a conservative. I have disagreed with him on only a few decisions.

Val Demmings (DEM) - Current mayor of Orange County. Served in Florida's Congress. Former Orlando chief of Police. Good on being pro-police. Votes as most democrats, pro big government, and more government control.

Representative in US Congress, District 2

Neal Dunn (REP) (my pick) - While he steers away from controversial issues and often does not want to take a strong stand, he votes fairly conservative.  

Al Lawson (DEM) - While not as progressive as some, he consistently votes with the democratic party.

Commissioner of Agriculture - 

Wilton Simpson (REP) - (my pick) Current member of the Florida State Senate (since 2016); Elected Senate president in 2019; Lifelong farmer currently has a egg production farm. Supported by Ron DeSantis.

Naomi Esther Blemur (DEM) - A first generation Haitian-American Minister. A career in management, working for several fortune 500 companies in the retail industry and commercial banking. Established a non-profit focused on women's issues and at-risk girls. No real connections to farmers or the agriculture industry. This is just a political stepping stone for her.

Judicial Voting Guide

Justice of the Supreme Court (Retain ?)

(Yes) Retain Justice Charles T. Canady - appointed by Jeb Bush in 2002. Formerly served 3 terms in Florida House and 4 terms in U.S. house of representatives.

(Yes) Retain Justice John D. Couriel - appointed by Ron Desantis in 2020. Assistant US attorney in south Florida for several years. Private attorney for several years.

(Yes) Retain Justice Jamie Grosshans - appointed by Ron Desantis in 2020. Assistant state attorney for several years. Court of appeals for a few years.

(No) Retain Justice Jorge Labarga - appointed by Charlie Christ in 2009. Circuit court judge before that and public defender for several years. Based on recommendation by the Florida Family Council.

(Yes) Retain Justice Ricky Polston - appointed by Charlie Christ in 2008.  Served as judge on District Court of Appeals and adjunct professor at FSU.

District Court of Appeal (Retain ?)

(Yes) Retain Judge Ross L. Bilbrey - appointed by Rick Scott in 2014. County and circuit judge since 2006

(Yes) Retain Judge Susan Kelsey - appointed by Rick Scott in 2015. Prior to that worked in private law practices.

(Yes) Retain Judge Bobby Long - appointed by Ron Desantis in 2020. Served as a trial court judge and Circuit Court Judge. Was general council for Leon County Sherriff's office.

(Yes) Retain Judge Lori S. Rowe - appointed by Charlie Christ in 2009. Deputy Attorney General for a few years. Private attorney for a few years.

(Yes) Retain Judge Bo Winokur - appointed by Rick Scott in 2015. Served as Army Judge advocate for a few years. Previously served as assistant attorney general for a few years.

Board of County Commissioners At Large, Group 2 - There is no good pick here, Nick is the least bad.

Josh Johnson - Not much info on him. Teaches Government and Economics at Godby High. Self proclaimed small business owner. Against the BluePrint $ going to FSU football Stadium. Anti building/growth. Supported by the far progressive wing of the city.

Nick Maddox - (least bad) Our current commissioner since 2010. Considers himself "a conservative Democrat", is OK with raising taxes, focus on affordable housing in the county. Former FSU and NFL football player, voted for $800,000 sidewalk project that mostly benefits the Double Tree.

Board of County Commissioners, District 2

Christian Caban - 

Hannah Crow - (my pick) 

Board of County Commissioners, District 5 - both are leftists

Paula DeBoles-Johnson - (my pick) not quite as far left

David T. O'Keefe - 

School Board Member, District 3

Darryl Jones - 

Write-in - (my pick) Dr. Ed Moore, or just put anyone they will be better.

School Board Member, District 4 - both seem like they could do a good job but I liked Laurie in the interviews better.

Laurie Lawson Cox - (my close pick) Teacher for 33 years. Well spoken, seems to have a lot of connections in the schools. Supported by Hodges.  

Alex Stemlie - Assistant principal at Ran for school board 2 years ago. Previous dean of students at Deer Lake Middle School. Not a conservative but seems reasonable and a good vision for the school board.

Mayor

John Dailey -  (my pick) A democrat but I believe an honest one. I don't always agree with his stances but I think he genuinely cares about our town and is not corrupt. Supported giving Blueprint Funds to update FSU and FAMU stadiums.

Kristin Dozier - Current county commissioner for District 5. Vice president of Mad Dog Construction. Leed Accredited. Opposed giving Blueprint Funds to update FSU and FAMU stadiums. Not a lot different between her and John Dailey, but she is supported by some very far progressive groups including Dream Defenders and Florida Rising.

No. 1 Constitutional Amendment: Limitation on the Assessment of Real Property Used for Residential Purposes

(YES) This protects home owners from increased taxes when they make improvements that help protect their property from flooding.

No. 2 Constitutional Amendment: Abolishing the Constitution Revision Commission (CRC).

(No) I go back and forth on this one. The CRC is a double edged sword. The CRC meets every 20 years to make amendments. One of a few ways to do so. While the last time they met they introduced several amendments that were "silly and unnecessary" but a few were also important and hard to get on the ballot any other way. Overall the Florida Constitution is amended too often, and this is one of the the few ways to undo some of those bad amendments. 

No. 3 Constitutional Amendment: Additional Homestead Property Tax Exemption for Specified Critical Services Workforce

(YES) Provides additional tax break to teachers, military and first responders on property tax. I don't like property taxes to begin with. But this does put a higher burden on the rest of us, unless they makeup the taxes in sales taxes (which I prefer).

Voter Guide Leon County, Florida General Election Ballot November 2020

 Leon County, Florida General Election Ballot November 2020

Don't forget to vote November 3, 2020

This is my take and observations on the candidates on my ballot. I include links where I can but really this is an exercise to help ME decide who to vote for. Hope it helps those others out there researching. Feel free to comment and/or provide additional information you know about the candidates.

Link to Democrat party platform

Link to Republican party platform

A few additional resources I like.

James Madison Institute Amendment Guide

ivoter guide - simple non-partisan summary based on your zip code (make sure you click the  2020 general election button on the right.

The Democrat Guide is OK but you can only view it a couple of times before they make you pay for it.

Representative to Congress, District 2

Neal Dunn (REP) - (my pick) running unopposed he has been a good representative, I like him.

Representative to Congress, District 5 (includes northern Leon Co all the way to Jacksonville)

Gary Adler (REP) - (my pick) Based in Jacksonville, a business owner who is new to politics. Would not be my first choice but probably better than Lawson.

Al Lawson (DEM) - The incumbent. Has been state legislature for 28 years. Active insurance agent. Owner of a marketing firm. Current focus is on health care. Not a socialist, but tends to vote for bigger government and higher taxes.

State Senator, District 3

Marva Harris Preston (REP) - (my pick)  Graduated from Wakulla High but has worked for 26 years as a police officer for the city of Miami, ordained ministry for Christ Church Anglican in Crawfordville, Florida, Endorsed by Gov Desantis. Not a lot of political experience, but appears to be a strong conservative.

Loranne Ausley (DEM) - Incumbent. Career politician, in the Florida house from 2000-2008 and 2016-present. I regretfully once voted for her thinking she was a moderate, but she is not and has proven herself to be far left big government type. 

State Representative, District 9

Jim Kallinger (REP) - (my pick) Moderate conservative. Past State Representative 2001 to 2004. Past chair of the Florida Faith & Freedom Coalition. Current senior strategist for Front Lines Strategies, a marketing firm.

Allison Tant (DEM) - Moderate progressive. Self proclaimed community organizer, has focused on support for disabled children in education (good cause). Very non-committal in many of her comments and answers. State chair for Democratic party.

Superintendent of Schools

Pam Hightower (DEM) - (my reluctant pick) 40 years of educational experience. Former principal for 3 different schools, and District Director of Title 1 and Special Services. I'm willing to give someone else a chance.

Rocky Hanna (NPA) - Incumbent, actually a DEM. Remember the school bussing fiasco last year? He will not allow teachers to participate in Florida's armed teacher program. Has a weird relationship to some LLC's registered in Las Vegas used to support local campaigns.

Justice of the Supreme Court (Retain ?)

(Yes) Retain Justice Carlos G. Muniz - recent appointment by Ron DeSantis in 2019. Formerly served as lawyer for the US dept. of Education, served as deputy attorney general and chief of staff to the Florida Attorney General.

District Court of Appeal (Retain ?)

(Yes) Retain Judge Joseph Lewis Jr. - Incumbent since 2001. Office of the Attorney General 1995-2000. appointed by Jeb Bush.

(Yes) Retain Judge Scott Makar - Incumbent since 2012. Appointed by Rick Scott. Solicitor General, State of Florida 2007-2011. General Counsel City of Jacksonville 2001-2007.

(Yes) Retain Judge Rachel Norby - recent appointment by Ron DeSantis in 2019. Served as Senior Deputy Solicitor General for the Florida Attorney General. Also was a partner at Tallahassee law firm.

(Yes) Retain Judge Tim Osterhause - Incumbent since 2013. Appointed by Rick Scott. I have met him and casually knew their family. Good people.

(Yes) Retain Judge Clay Roberts - Incumbent since 2007. Appointed by Charlie Crist. Deputy Attorney General 2003-2007. Adjunct law professor 2004-2013. 

(Yes) Retain Judge Adam S. Tanenbaum - Recently appointed by Ron DeSantis in 2019. Lawyer for FL House of Representatives 2016-2019, FL Dept of State 2015-2016. Back and forth as Assistant public defender and private attorney between 1997-2014.

Circuit Judge, 2nd Judicial Circuit, Group 4

Tiffany Baker - young attorney worked past 7 years as a criminal defense, personal injury and family law attorney. Young but actually spoke about upholding the constitution in interview.

Amanda P. Wall - (my pick), 31 Years in law practice as both a private attorney and as a prosecutor. appears to have a greater variety of types law practice which I think is a plus for a judge.

Board of County Commissioners at Large, Group 1

Carolyn Cummings - (my pick) An attorney with over 35 years of experience in government and general practice law. Main concerns are crime and affordable housing. Supports Children's Services Council. This is a close one, although I don't agree with her on everything she seems fairly moderate and willing to work with the business community.

Kelly Otte - served as the executive director at the PACE Center for Girls for more than a decade. Columnist of the Tallahassee Democrat. Has had a variety of jobs. Lots of volunteer works. Main concerns economic growth, crime and poverty. 

Board of County Commissioners, District 4

Bryan Desloge - (my reluctant pick) Former IBM employee and former owner of a medical device firm. Former chair of city Chamber of Commerce. A rare republican (possibly the only one) on the county commission. Can be a hot head at times, and I don't always agree, but he is more conservative than most of the others on the commission.

Brian Welch - Chiles High teacher, Main issues, getting additional parks for the NE Tallahassee and limiting development. I agree with many of his positions, I just agree more with Desloge.

City Commissioner, Seat 2

Curtis Richardson - Current City Commissioner, a progressive, pushed for 27% city tax hike, voted to approve contracts for city vendors that had recently donated to his campaign and did not excuse himself from voting.

Bill Schack - (my pick) Tallahassee business owner. Food service director for Tallahassee homeless shelter and Guardian ad litem volunteer. Strong law enforcement supporter.

Leon Soil and Water Conservation District Seat 5 (very little info on either candidate)

James R. Billingsley - (my pick) Former member of Canopy Roads Citizens Committee and employee of the Florida House and Senate, whatever that means. Pick only due to experience on CRCC.

Kyle Frost - Software engineer. Is active in the local environmental community. 

Capital Region Community Development District, Seat 4

Carl Mikyska - (my pick)  Incumbent. Executive Director of the Florida Metropolitan Planning Organization Advisory Council. Worked for FDOT. 

Andrew Wiggins - Could not find any information about him.

Establishment of Children's Services Council of Leon County

This creates a new county bureaucracy that would have their own taxing power and will not be able to be removed until 12 years after being established. Children services are already covered under the county's budget, with lots of different programs. There is no written plan or budget for this new initiative. You're expected to vote for it before you can see what it will do. Additional Children's Services and budgets should be addressed through the existing mostly transparent county commission and not a new unaccountable committee.

(No)

Amendments

In general if you don't understand an amendment it is better to vote NO. Our Florida constitution is muddied up with way too many things that should have been left to legislation by the house and senate, and not put forever in the constitution.

No. 1 - Citizenship Requirement to Vote in Florida Elections

Requires Florida residents to be citizens to vote. This is kinda redundant, but is an attempt to clarify the language in the law. This is an issue that cannot be addressed by the Legislature.

(Yes)

No. 2 - Raising Florida's Minimum Wage

Raises Florida's Minimum Wage to $15. This is a job and small business killer. Small businesses like restaurants already struggling to stay alive will be forced to fire people and/or shut down. The only companies able to absorb the costs will be large corporations like Target. For a great summary explaining why this is a bad idea go HERE.

(NO NO NO.......)

No. 3 - All Voters Vote in Primary Elections for State Legislature, Governor, and Cabinet

This would make Florida's Primaries "Open" which means REP can vote for DEMs in the primary and visa versa. I don't like this idea as it makes it possible for either party to sabotage the other party's primary by voting against the other party's stronger candidate.

(No)

No. 4 -  Voter Approval of Constitutional Amendments

Requires Florida Constitutional amendments to pass voter approval twice. Currently I think Florida's constitution is changed too easily. This will help make sure that amendments are looked at more closely. Since a different set of voters tend to vote every 2 years it makes since to have each weight in.

(Yes)

No. 5 - Limitations on Homestead Property Tax Assessments: 

Extends the homestead tax exemption (Save-Our-Homes) from 2 to 3 years. Gives homeowners a time exemption for those that take a long time to build a home, which has been happening a lot lately with the recent hurricane issues.

This is an issue that cannot be addressed by the Legislature.

(Yes)

No. 6 - Homestead Property Tax Discount for Surviving Spouses of Deceased Veterans

Does what it sounds like. It is only for veterans with combat related disabilities. I think this makes sense.

This is an issue that cannot be addressed by the Legislature.

(Yes)

Leon County General Election 2018

Leon County, Florida Ballot Blog

Don't forget to vote November 6, 2018

This is my take and observations on the candidates on my ballot. I include links where I can but really this is an exercise to help ME decide who to vote for. Hope it helps those others out there researching. 

Commissioner of Agriculture

Matt Caldwell - Rep -  (My Pick) My pick during the primary. Former real estate appraiser. Current member of the Florida House where he was elected in 2010. Has a lot of endorsements

Nicole "Nikki" Fried - Dem - Worked as a public defender after college, now is lawyer in private practice. Increased access to medical marijuana is her main platform. 

Mayor

John Dailey - (My reluctant Pick) He is not as bad as Dustin. One day I hope to be able to elect at least some moderates to the city government, until then John is the least bad option.

Dustin R. Daniels - Dustin is a buddy of Andrew Gillum and involved in some of the same "receiving of favors". If you like Andrew Gillum then Dustin is for you.

 City Commissioner Seat 3

Lisa Brown - (My reluctant Pick) CEO and board member at the Tallahassee-Leon Federal Credit Union. Formerly registered republican now NPA, considers herself a moderate. At least she is not supported by NOW.

Jeremy Matlow - Owner of Gaines Street Pies, supported by NOW, FSU college DEMS, the teachers union, and Boldprogressives.org.

 City Commissioner Seat 5 (this is a no win race)

Bob Lotane - Communications (marketing lobbying) Consultant - Progressive liberal. Anti-school choice, anti-charter schools, proposes to ban plastic bags, proposes "high speed" buses. He does have a strong ethics reform and government transparency stance. His website has a lot of info.

Dianne Williams-Cox -(my changed pick)Accountability/Comp. Officer for Voices of FL, Inc., Proud member of the Democratic party.  She didn't really state any real policies only platitudes. After reading some negative politico flier I changed my mind to pick her.

Leon Soil and Water Conservation District 2

Cara Feischer - Co-leader of Tallahassee citizens climate lobby (that sounds like an organization that needs some tax money)

John W. Hedrick -Assistant public defender, served as chair of democrat environmental caucus.

Will Henry - (My Pick) Veteran, retired nurse and accountant, seems at least somewhat moderate

Leon Soil and Water Conservation District 4

Bill Helmich - (My Pick) He is running on a platform of doing away with the Leon Soil and Water Conservation committee, which sounds like a good idea since their original function is not longer needed. They were created in the 1938 to represent small farmers to report soil and water needs to the government. They do not make policy or influence taxes but only inform and lobby for their own ideas.

Brian Lee - Incumbent, co-founder of Re-think energy Florida advocate.

Retain Justice Alan Lawson - (Yes) A conservative leaning judge appointed by Rick Scott.

Retain Judge Harvey Jay - (Yes)  Appointed by Rick Scott, I could not find a reason not to keep him.

Retain Judge Stephanie Ray - (Yes)  Appointed by Rick Scott, lots of awards and community organizations. 

Retain Judge Brad Thomas - (Yes) Appointed by Jeb Bush, I could not find a reason not to keep him.

Retain Judge Kemmerly Thomas - (Yes)  A conservative leaning judge appointed by Rick Scott.

Retain Judge Allen Winsor - (Yes) Appointed by Rick Scott, I could not find a reason not to keep him.

Circuit Judge, 2nd Judicial Circuit, Group 12

Lisa Barclay Fountain -Worked at a variety of private law firms, about half plantiffs and half defense lawyer.
David Frank -  (My Close Pick) Former Green Beret, CIA analyst, and Assistant Attorney General. Currently owns The Frank Law Firm. Also has defense and plantiff experience. I give him the edge because he had experience as a prosecutor in addition to private work.

Amendments

In general if you don't understand an amendment it is better to vote NO. Our Florida constitution is muddied up with way too many things that should have been left to legislation by the house and senate, and not put forever in the constitution.

No. 1 - Increased Homestead Property Tax Exemption
If you own a decent home you will get an additional tax break on the house you live in. I love lower taxes.
(Yes)

No. 2 - Limitations on Property Tax Assessments
Makes permanent, limits to non-homestead property tax increases to 10% or less. This limit is already in effect, this just makes it permanent.
(Yes)
No. 3 - Voter Control of Gambling in Florida
Financed by the Seminole Tribe and Disney. It would make it so that expanding gambling would require being voted on by Florida residents. (now the legislature or voters can authorize gambling). I don't think it makes sense that voters in Tallahassee would have a say in Miami expanding gambling or visa versa. After additional research and discussion I don't think this should be in the constitution and the legislature should have a say in this issue. 
(No)

No. 4 - Voter Restoration Amendment
Fairly straight forward. Restores the voting rights of felons after they complete their sentence. Does not apply to murder and sexual offenses. I believe in restoring the rights and privileges to those that have finished their sentence. 
(Yes)

No. 5 - Supermajority Vote Required to Impose, Authorize, or Raise State Taxes or Fees.  
Requires 2/3rds vote of each house of the legislature to raise taxes or fees.  Does not apply to counties or cities only state. I am for lower taxes in general. If a fee is really important they can get more than 2/3rds votes.

(Yes)

No. 6 - Rights of Crime Victims: Judges
I don't like that this is really 3 (or more) amendments rolled into one. This is a complicated one with too many different moving parts. I agree with overall giving rights to victims (Marcy's Law), I think this is a complex issue that requires more simplification and clarity than is given by this amendment.
(No)

No. 7 - First Responder and Military Member Survivor
While I support giving death benefits and cheaper college to the surviving family members of First Responders and the military, this does not belong in the constitution and should be handled via the legislature.
(No)

No. 9 - Prohibits Offshore Oil and Gas Drilling; Prohibits Vaping in Enclosed Indoor Workplaces
First this should not be 1 amendment but 2. Prohibiting Oil and Gas Drilling is shortsighted and foolish, a sentiment based on fear. This should be handled first in the marketplace, and second in the legislature. Vaping issues should be handled by whomever owns the workplace and not in the constitution.
(No)

No. 10 - State and Local Government Structure and Operation
Although this has way too many different things in one amendment, I strongly support elections of the sheriff, property appraiser, tax collectors, and clerks of court. County officials that remove the elections and instead put there own choices in these positions have way too much power. The other part of the amendment are not that important.
(Yes)

No. 11 - Removal of Obsolete Provision; Criminal Statutes
This is a bundle of several revisions proposed by the "Constitution Revision Commission" to remove and change 3 main provisions. 1. repeals a prohibition of foreign-born persons from owning or inheriting Florida property. 2. repeals provision that forced the development of high-speed rail. 3. Allows more flexibility in prosecuting amended criminal statutes.
(Yes)


No. 12 - Lobbying and Abuse of Office by Public Officers
This prohibits public officials from lobbying for compensation during the official's term in office and for six years after the official leaves office and prohibits public officials from using the office to obtain a disproportionate benefit. A good idea in theory, enforcement would be very tricky, but does not belong in the constitution.
(No)

No. 13 - Ends Dog Racing
I disagree with dog racing for a number of reasons, however, language in this bill could be used to limit or outlaw hunting, fishing, farming of animals, etc.  It has a "poison pill" and does not belong in the constitution.
(No)

Extras: (not Constitutional)

Code of Ethics as Proposed by the Citizen Charter Review Committee
Establishes a Code of Ethics for the County Commissioners, employees, and their appointees. Long overdue,  the county is in bad need of Ethics reform.
(Yes)

Second Judicial Circuit Public Defender Appointee to City of Tallahassee Independent Ethics Board
Provides that the Public Defender will appoint Seat 2 on the Tallahassee Ethics Board.
(Yes)
I will continue as I have time:.....

Leon County Florida, Primary Ballot August 2018

Leon County Florida, Primary Ballot August 2018

Leon County, Florida Primary Ballot Blog (Republican Party)

Don't forget to vote August 28, 2018

This is my take and observations on the candidates on my ballot. I include links where I can but really this is an exercise to help ME decide who to vote for. Hope it helps those others out there researching.

United States Senator 

Roque "Rocky" De La Fuente - why is this guy wasting his time? He is a Californian running for senator simultaneously in 5 states. Maybe so he can combine funding who knows.

Rick Scott - (My Pick) If you don't know who Rick Scott is maybe you should try voting on the 29th. He is not perfect but this is a no brainer.

Governor and Lt. Governor

Surprisingly there are more than 2 candidates

I'm not going to discuss the Lt. Governor because it doesn't really matter.

Don Baldaulf - Business man, small government guy, but he doesn't have the experience to be the Governor. I'm sorry to say Don has no chance.

Ron DeSantis - (My Pick) The current US Congressman for the 6th District. Former Navy JAG officer. A member of the conservative Freedom caucus. 

Timothy M. Devine - He was a write-in candidate for Governor in 2014. Also ran twice for Oceola Sheriff. Has no website and doesn't do interviews. Apparently he just likes the idea of being on a ballot.

Bob Langford - Retired Tallahassee attorney, worked for the Legislature for eight years and had been a lawyer for the Office of Public Counsel as well as in the Attorney General's office. Also has no website or Facebook page. Qualifications include quote "I believe I have been to every intersection in this state, many times." ...I'm sure he has.

John Joseph Mercadante - Not good with words. Businessman working as an HVAC repairman. Seems like a nice guy but doesn't have a chance.
Bruce Nathan - physical therapist for over 20 years, once a democrat that changed republican after 9/11. No political experience. Also no chance.
Adam H. Putnam - (A close runner up) Current Florida's Commissioner of Agriculture. Served in Florida congress for 10 years.  I think he would make a good governor, but after hearing the debate between him and DeSantis I have to give the edge to DeSantis.

Attorney General
Ashley Moody - (My Pick) Practiced commercial litigation then became a federal prosecutor for a few years. After that she became the youngest judge in Florida. Supported by Pam Bondi and a lot of sheriffs.
Frank White - CFO and general counsel to Sansing Dealer Group. Serves as chair of Florida Development Finance Corporation Board of Directors. Has not been a prosecutor before, I think that is really important.

Commissioner of Agriculture
Matt Caldwell - (My Close Pick) Former real estate appraiser. Current member of the Florida House where he was elected in 2010. Has a lot of endorsements
Denise Grimsley -  Registered Nurse with an MBA, Current member of the Florida Senate, Chair of the Senate Ag committee. Also has a lot of endorsements, has detailed plan in the form of a short e-book. (think Leslie Knope)
Mike McCalister - Retired Army Colonel. Former professor. Owner/operator of a small tree farm. I liked most of his ideas for changes in the Ag department. He does not have many endorsements and does not have much chance of winning

Baxter Troutman - Family farmer and rancher also CEO of Labor Solutions. Former member of the Florida House 2002 - 2010. Board member with Farm Bureau. He does not have many endorsements, has more funding than McCalister but still does not have much chance of winning

Circuit Judge 2nd Judicial Circuit, Group 12
- I listened to a "debate" with them and any of the 3 would make a decent judge. 
Lisa Barclay Fountain -Worked at a variety of private law firms, about half plantiffs and half defense lawyer.
David Frank -  (My Close Pick) Former Green Beret, CIA analyst, and Assistant Attorney General. Currently owns The Frank Law Firm. Also has defense and plantiff experience. I give him the edge because he had experience as a prosecutor in addition to private work.
D. Christine Thurman - Worked primarily in family civil law. Strong volunteer background.

County Judge, Group 3
Cydnee Brown - Former non-commissioned officer in air-force and prosecutor with State Attorney, currently criminal defense and family law attorney.
Monique Richardson - Former public defender and managing attorney to Legal Services of North Florida. Current lawyer to the AME Church, Supported by NOW so not supported by me.
Suzanne Van Wyk - (my Pick) Currently an administrative law judge, served as GC to the Florida Department of Community Affairs, as assistant county attorney with the Leon County Attorney’s Office, and as a staff attorney for the Florida Building Commission and the Florida Senate, Committee on Community Affairs. My pick based on her experience as a judge and lawyer

Mayor
Norris H. Barr  - No website or facebook page, difficult to find info. No.
John Dailey -  Was county commission for 12 years. He endorses Gwen Graham for governor.
Dustin R Daniels - Andrew Gillum's former chief of staff....NO No No.
Carrie Litherland - Young with no experience, not clear where she stands on several issues.
Michelle Rehwinkel Vasillinda -Moderate Democrat in the Florida house, pro 2nd amendment, could do worse.
Joe West - (my close Pick) Disabled Vietnam Vet. I agree with most of ideas and we need someone new in city office.

City Commissioner, Seat 3
Lisa Brown - formerly registered republican now NPA, considers herself a moderate.
Richard Garzola - Democrat, community organizer
Alex C. Jordan - Democrat, longtime state administrator.
Jeremy Matlow - Democrat
Bill Schack - Republican

City Commissioner, Seat 5
Henry Adelusi Jr -
Howard Kessler -
Bob Lotane -
Dianne Williams-Cox -

Leon County Florida, General Election, November Ballot 2016

:(

After many hours of work and late nights staying up writing this blog it was accidently deleted and I can't figure out how to get it back.

I apologize for the lack of in depth research but below is a quick synopsis of how I plan to vote without all of the previous detail, except in a few races.

Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller

Difficult choice but I give the edge to Gwen.
Gwen Marshall - DEM - (My Pick) has been working for the Clerks of the Circuit Court and Comptrollers for 17 years.
Franklin Ayetin - NPA - Assistant General Counsel for the Florida Division of Emergency Management.

Sheriff

After 2 years being the county with the highest violent crime rate in the state it is time for a change.
Charlie Strickland - REP - (A close second) -
Walt McNeil - DEM - Former Police Chief, would also make a good choice.
Tommy Mills - NPA -
Mike Woods - NPA - (My Pick) Current Sheriff, based on inside info, has helped to greatly improve moral at the office.

Property Appraiser

Akin Akinyemi - former county commissioner. My favorite quote from him. "I am a very humble man, but I have done more for this county in 3 years than anyone." He should not be allowed to hold any public office.
Greg Lane - (My Pick) Has been in real estate and doing property appraisals for many years.

Superintendent of Schools

View the WCTV debate HERE
Forrest Van Camp - REP - (My Pick) Former Leon County School Board member and long-time school administrator. He is against the common core curriculum.
Jackie Pons - DEM - Current Superintendent, Time for someone new.
Rocky Hanna - NPA - Worked as Assistant Principal and Principal of Leon High, worked with Special Sites and Programs for Dept. of Juvenile Justice.
Patricia Ann Sunday - NPA - No chance of winning not enough people know who she is.

Justice of the Supreme Court

(Yes) Charles T. Canady - one of only 2 conservatives on the court
(No) Jorge Labaraga
(Yes) Ricky L. Polston - the other conservative.

District Court of Appeal

(Yes) Ross Bilbrey
(Yes) Susan Kelsey
(Yes) Lori S. Rowe
(Yes) Kent Wetherell
(Yes) Bo Winokur
(No) Jim Wolf

Supervisor of Elections

Mark S. Earley - (MY PICK) 22 year employee of the elections office, currently Voting systems manager. Endorsed by Ion Sancho. Clearly has the most experience.
Alan Williams - Former Democrat State Representative looking for another government job.

County Commissioner - District 2

Jimbo Jackson - Has served as Administrator at Fort Braden School for past 12 years. Seems OK but I'll give the edge to Manny.
Manny Joanos - (My Pick) Divisional Director for the Leon County School District. Endorsed by NEBA (pro business group), based on his platform he seems more pro business which is something Leon county needs.

County Commissioner At Large, Group 1

David T. Hawkins - (My Pick) Works at Florida Department of Revenue Warehouse. Fiscal conservative, emphasis on limiting county spending.
Mary Ann Lindley - Current County Commissioner, former Tallahassee Democrat and Miami Herald employee and Hillary Clinton supporter.

Leon County Soil and Water Conservation District 1

Unpaid position
Brooke Bustle - (My Pick) Works for Strategic Management Office of the DMV. Has worked for Steve Southerland and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation.
Lorin Pratt - Current Supervisor of the Leon County Soil and Water Conservation District. Public Information Specialist.

Leon County Soil and Water Conservation District 3

Unpaid position
Tabitha Frazier - Runs website "leontrees.org" a website dedicated to Leon County's trees. Current supervisor, Leon Soil and Water Conservation District. Not bad.
Bill Helmich - (My Pick) BA Military History. Owns local business consulting firm. Has worked for City Water Utilities and Underground Utilities Departments. Previous supervisor, Leon Soil and Water Conservation District

Capital Region Community Development District, Seat 2

Brian Kelley - Regional Sales Director for IT company.
Carl Mikyska - (My Pick) Executive Director of the Florida Metropolitan Planning Organization Advisory Council. Worked for FDOT. He has the most experience.

Amendments

In general if you don't understand an amendment it is better to vote NO. Our Florida constitution is muddied up with way too many things that should have been left to legislation by the house and senate, and not put forever in the constitution.
Amendment 1 - Rights of Electricity Consumers Regarding Solar Energy Choice
this has been pushed by the Florida Utility companies, and should not be in the Constitution, but through legislation.
(No)

Amendment 2 - Use of Marijuana for Debilitating Medical Conditions
I am actually for the Medical use of Marijuana or its derivative, but this should not be in the constitution.
(No)

Amendment 3 - Tax Exemption for Totally and Permanently Disabled First Responders
For this to happen, needs to be through amendment.
(Yes)

Amendment 5 - Homestead Tax Exemption for Certain Senior, Low-income, Long-Term Residents; Determination of Just Value.
This is a revision of a previous amendment and must be handled by another amendment
(Yes)

Leon County Florida, Primary Ballot August 2016

Leon County, Florida Primary Ballot Blog (Republican Party)

Don't forget to vote August 30, 2016

This is my take and observations on the candidates on my ballot. I include links where I can but really this is an exercise to help ME decide who to vote for. Hope it helps those others out there researching

 

United States Senator

Carlos Beruff - A businessman with some experience on local government boards, appears to be a strong conservative. I would consider voting for him if Rubio were not running.

Ernie Rivera - Former pastor from Puerto Rico. Has done a lot of missions work and a little bit of Puerto Rican politics. Appears to be a constitutional conservative.

Marco Rubio -  (MY PICK) You should know him by now. He is not perfect, but I like him and think he will continue to do a great job as senator.

Dwight Mark Anthony Young - Born in Jamaica, former army, currently a Sheriff's Deputy, very little experience. Should try to be a little more active in the community first.

 

Representative in Congress District 2

These are all good candidates I just like Ken better.

Neal Dunn - Served in the army for 10 years.  Currently a Urologist in Panama City.  Locally active in community groups charity boards and the boy scouts.  Supported by Steve Southerland (a plus). Strong conservative, I would vote for him if not for Ken running.

Ken Sukhia - (MY PICK) A lawyer that served as a clerk for the Florida Supreme Court for many years and now owns his own law firm.  Politically conservative.  I know personal stories about Ken, that let me know he is a man of great character. This is one of the most important traits a politician can have.

Mary Thomas - Born to Indian parents after migrating to US.  A lawyer that currently serves as the General Counsel at the Department of Elder Affairs. A strong conservative in a tough race.
 

 State Committeewoman (for Leon County)

What is a State Committeewoman you ask?  It is an unpaid, vague position designated by each political party.   It is basically an elected party leader, who is to support the party (Republican" for me), and only has "power" within the party itself, and is in charge of overseeing Republican organizations and clubs throughout the state.
Dorothy Lee "Dotty" McPherson - retired, former Legislative Aide and Legislative Analyst, locally active in Navy League, American Legion, and the Republican Party. Not a bad pick.
Caitlin Murray - (MY PICK) Director of Government Affairs at Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, former finance consultant for CMM strategies, Chief Legislative Assistant, Campaign Manager for State Senate.  To be so young she has a lot of experience and appears to be very ambitious. 

 

County Judge Seat 2

Monique Richardson - Endorsed by NOW, 15 years as an attorney for the State Attorney's office and the Public Defender's office.  I just can't get over her being proud to be endorsed by NOW.

Layne Smith -  (MY PICK) He is the current judge. Worked in private practice for 24 years. Also worked as a Special Assistant Prosecutor and as a Special Assistant Public Defender.  Also has a lot of local community involvement, teaching and doing law stuff. I don't know much about his judgements so this is not a strong endorsement.
 

Supervisor of Elections

Mark S. Early - (MY PICK) 22 year employee of the elections office, currently Voting systems manager. Endorsed by Ion Sancho. Clearly has the most experience.

Tena M. Pate - Served for a long time on the Parol Commission, been on a lot of state public safety boards.  Served under last 4 governors.

Alan Williams - Former Democrat State Representative looking for another government job. Huge partisan progressive, I would never vote for him.
 

School Board District 4

For the Tallahassee Democrat Debate video click HERE

Patrick Cannon - political science grad, currently works on the Florida Rehabilitation Council, which is part of the Department of Education, and assists people with disabilities as they leave high school.

Tallie Gainer III - (My uncertain Pick) former teacher and assistant principal at Capital City Public Charter High School. Served as youth pastor at St. John Cathedral, current Christian radio host.

DeeDee Rasmussen - Current chair of the Leon County School Board, has been on board for 8 years. Has 15 years experience in higher education (whatever that means), and was a senior staff member in Florida's legislative and executive branch.  There have been several issues, like bathroom choice and no bid contracts that the school board could have done better.  She is also endorsed by the Teachers Union, which is a negative for me.

 

Tallahassee City Commission Seat 1

This is a Pick of the least bad.

For the WFSU Debate video click HERE

Gary Gayle - Group manager at LegalShield,  did not respond to multiple local debate requests, Not a serious candidate

Luther Lee - (My Reluctant Pick) degree in Information Systems, currently working in management for FL Department of Revenue, formerly worked as a sales manager. New to politics. Based on his answers to candidate surveys and in debate, he is not great but is the least bad.

Scott Maddox - Ugghh, Former mayor of Tallahassee. Former chair of the Democratic party. Big progressive, Not my favorite

Dr. Bruce W. Stouble Jr - Community organizer, big into social justice, well spoken, just graduated in 2015, affiliated with left leaning alarmist media group "People Over Politics", can anyone say Obama

 

Tallahassee City Commission Seat 2

For the WFSU Debate video click HERE

Dr. Steven Hougland - (My Pick) Retired police officer, and former professor. Supports a change of policy to make it illegal for vendors to donate to campaigns. The best thing about Steven, is that he is not Curtis.

Curtis Richardson - Current City Commissioner, a progressive, pushed for 27% city tax hike, voted to approve contracts for city vendors that had recently donated to his campaign and did not excuse himself from voting.

 

No. 4 Constitutional Amendment, Article VII, Sections 3 and 4, Article XII, Section 34

I'm voting (YES). If a property owner adds solar to their home or business, when the property value is assessed for taxes, this bill would make it so the addition of solar does not add to the property owners taxes.

 

A good article is HERE

This is very different from the Solar Amendment that will be on the November ballot, which you should vote NO.