Know Before You Vote: 2024 Primary

Staying informed when it comes to local politics isn’t easy. That’s why I wrote this brief voting guide. It contains consolidated information about some of the local races and candidates that are on this year’s ballot for Leon County’s 2024 Primary Election.

I’m not an official authority on Tallahassee politics, but I’m well-informed, having served as Leon County’s Soil and Water Supervisor, ran for City Commission, interned in the Florida House, and have volunteered on multiple local neighborhood boards and political campaigns.

Races:

🗳City Commissioner, Seat 1
🗳City Commissioner, Seat 2
🗳Property Appraiser
🗳Superintendent of Schools

Why you should vote in this election:

Tallahassee has existed in a state of stagnancy, and even decline, for the past four years. Voting is a tool to place proactive, competent leaders in seats of power to progress our communities and solve problems, like rising unaffordability, inadequate public infrastructure and the rise of violent crime.

Historically, our local leaders have used their power to: end segregation, build Cascades Park, and suspend utility disconnections during the COVID-19 pandemic, but they have also abused this power to bulldoze low-income communities and misspend public funds.

Your vote will help elect the government leaders who will ultimately shape the future of our communities. Typically, around 30% of registered voters show up to elect these leaders - allowing an unrepresentative minority to decide the future. Don’t sit this one out.

Before you cast your ballot, make sure you know:

1. Which races you will be voting in: Look up a sample ballot here. Your address and party affiliation will determine race eligibility.
2. Where you will be voting: On Election Day, you have to vote at your designated polling location. You can find that here.

While deciding who to vote for, ask yourself:

1. What are my priorities?: Have a clear idea of what you care about and what you want to see differently in your community. Let your priorities help you identify political candidates who align with your personal views on key issues such as development, economic inequality, gun violence, public safety, ethics, and more.

2. Does this candidate represent me?: Review a candidate’s platform, policies, and values. This will help you determine their stance on the issues that matter most to you, as well as their plans for addressing the challenges faced by your community.

3. Will this candidate be effective?: Review a candidate’s past accomplishments, failures, and experiences. This will give you a clear understanding of their motivations, abilities, and what they can realistically achieve while in office.