Election 2024 Heats Up – Who’s In and Who’s Out

Russell Tuff
Chairman, CCCVPAC

The 2024 election cycle is quickly approaching, and candidates have wasted no time in throwing their hats into the ring. Already, two candidates have filed for the position of Mayor in the City of Naples, while Collier County Commissioner has drawn interest from five potential candidates. Additionally, the role of Collier Supervisor of Elections has two contenders vying for the position.

On the ballot, Collier County residents will have the opportunity to vote for a variety of offices, including Sheriff, State Representatives, Commissioners, and more. Among these, the Collier County Commission District 3 race is proving to be one of the most hotly contested, with four candidates already in the running.

For a complete list of the offices up for election in Collier County click here.  For a list of the declared Republican candidates on the ballot, click here.

The first election is just a few months away, scheduled for March. This includes the presidential primary and the City of Naples election.

Turning our attention to the federal election, we find Naples’s very own US Senator, Rick Scott, facing off against his Democratic opponent, Debbie Mucarsel-Powell. In the US House of Representatives, candidates Byron Donalds, Mario Diaz-Balart, and Scott Franklin currently have no competitors challenging them for their positions.

A competition to watch closely is the Florida State Representative seat 81, currently held by Bob Rommel. With his term set to expire, Yvette Benarroch and Greg Folley are both eager to claim this seat.

City of Naples

As we delve into the issues pertinent to the City of Naples, it becomes evident that the governance of the existing City Council is a focal point.

Concerns have arisen regarding the excessive oversight of city staff, causing them to dedicate more time to reporting to council members rather than receiving clear directives from the city administrator and promptly taking action. Moreover, the frequency of council meetings has raised questions, as it detracts staff from their primary duties. This is in addition to the marathon sessions that are far too frequent.

Another point of annoyance is that council members seem to concur on decisions but still feel compelled to reiterate their rationales for support or denial, even when the matter has already been resolved. It appears there is a desire for some council members to be heard, even at the expense of efficiency. These concerns offer valuable insights into the issues facing the City of Naples as the election cycle unfolds.

To date, only two candidates have file, and both for the Mayor position. To see the list – click here