Yes, we just finished the 2024 election.
But, also yes, it's time to look forward toward the 2026 cycle.
Will the biggest state-profile race on that ballot will be for the Governor's seat as Ron DeSantis will be termed out, very-important local races will be up for grabs, starting with the August 2026 primary.
Candidates are already throwing hats into the ring for elected offices. For instance, Rev. Mary Downey, CEO of the Hope Partnership, which works to find all residents housing they can afford, has announced her candidacy for the Osceola County Commission District 4 seat currently held by Democrat Cheryl Grieb.
Downey, also a registered Democrat, cited the "exciting opportunities and significant challenges” of Osceola County's tremendous growth as the catalyst for her candidacy.
“I’m running for County Commissioner to prioritize affordable housing, promote the arts, champion sustainable development, and address transportation needs. My campaign is dedicated to giving District 4 residents a strong voice on the County Commission and tackling growth with thoughtful, forward-thinking policies that work for everyone."
The District 2 county seat, held by Viviana Janer, will also be up. That race has no confirmed candidates as of yet, as does Kissimmee City Commission Seat 2 currently held by Angela Eady. But Seat 4, now held by Janette Martinez, is already hotly-contested 18 months out. Martinez has filed for re-election and is joined by three others.
Rubin Anderson ran for Seat 3 in 2024 and is back on the ballot to serve the city. Community activist and leader of the local Black Empowerment & Community Council has also filed to run, along with Kissimmee's Maria Virginia Garcia.
And, on the School Board, Jay Wheeler, the former District 1 board member who served from 2004-18 before stepping down to take a private business role, has filed to run again for the seat currently held by Teresa Castillo, who's held it since 2018.
"I think I can help the students of Osceola County find success," he said.
The District 4 School Board seat, currently held by Heather Kahoun, will also be up for election in 2026, as will St. Cloud seats 4 and 5 now held by Ken Gilbert and Shawn Fletcher.
As for those heading to Tallahassee, current state Representatives Erika Booth (District 35) and Leonard Spencer (45) have already set up accounts for 2026 re-election bids.
