The State of Naples City Elections – What You Need to Know

Russell Tuff
Chairman, CCCVPAC

Fellow Conservative Patriots of Naples,

Is our beloved City of Naples headed in the right direction? That’s the burning question on every voter’s mind this election season—and with good reason. Voter frustration is boiling over, and it’s fueling an unprecedented surge of challengers ready to shake up City Hall. But here’s the catch: Your voice is the key to real change, and with this year’s limited voting options, it’s easier than ever to make it count from the comfort of home. Don’t let low turnout hand the reins to the status quo—act now to secure your Vote-by-Mail ballot today! Click Here to get ballot.

The Wake-Up Call: Dismal Turnout Means Our Conservative Values Are at Risk

In typical City of Naples elections, turnout hovers at a heartbreaking just over 33%—meaning two-thirds of eligible voters sit this out, letting a small minority decide our future. Even in high-stakes presidential primaries, we barely crack 50%. That’s not democracy; that’s complacency allowing unaccountable leadership to drift from the principles we hold dear: fiscal responsibility, limited government, and protecting our coastal paradise from overreach.

But you can flip the script. No more long lines, no more excuses. This year, there are only TWO ways to vote:

• Election Day: Tuesday, February 3, 2026—but brace for crowds if turnout surges.
• There is No Early Voting
• Vote-by-Mail: The smart, hassle-free choice for conservatives who refuse to be sidelined.

Important Alert for Early Voting Fans: Traditional early voting isn’t available this cycle. If you want flexibility, Vote-by-Mail is your only alternative to Election Day chaos. Apply now—it’s secure, straightforward, and ensures your ballot arrives in plenty of time. Click here to request your Vote-by-Mail ballot instantly and join the thousands of Collier County patriots voting their values without compromise.

The Race That’s Capturing Headlines: A Clear Sign of Voter Revolt

What’s sparking this fire? Widespread discontent with City Hall’s direction—from delays on fixing every problem, to putting unnecessary obstacles in front of residents and businesses trying to recover from hurricanes and slow walking advances to the quality of services provided to the city by businesses and organizations.  The proof? A record 8 strong candidates vying for just 3 City Council seats (originally 9, but one wisely bowed out amid the fierce competition). This isn’t just a race; it’s a conservative uprising to reclaim Naples for the people.

Here’s the lineup of contenders ready to fight for your priorities:

• The Republican Candidates: Ted Blankenship, John Krol, John Langley, Scott Schultz, and Penny Taylor. These are people who have stepped forward who share most core values.
• The Independents (3 Fresh Perspectives with Conservative Roots):
  • Dan Barone: A former registered Republican who went independent in 2020 to broaden his appeal—still a fighter for limited government.
  • Raymond Christman: Was a Democrat until the election of 2020 when he became Independent to today.
  • Sally Petersen: Registered Democrat in 2023 but switched to independent in 2025—probably to have shown no alignment with the state of Democrat politics.

With so many aligned options, your Vote-by-Mail ballot gives you the power to tip the scales toward real reform. Imagine a Council that prioritizes tax relief, beachfront preservation, and small-business growth over bureaucratic bloat. That’s the Naples we deserve—and it’s within reach if you show up.

Get Informed and Get Involved: Forums to Fuel Your Fire

Knowledge is power, and we’ve got you covered. Dozens of candidate forums are lined up, offering unfiltered access to hear these contenders’ visions firsthand. From town halls on fiscal accountability to panels on coastal protection, these events are your chance to vet, question, and endorse the leaders who’ll safeguard our values.

View the full schedule here—mark your calendars and bring a friend. Together, we’re not just voting; we’re building a brighter, bolder Naples.

• December 11 – Red Blue 4 Green Forum. 4 – 6 pm. Norris Community Center 755 8th Ave So.
• January 6 – Olde Naples Association Forum. 4 – 6 pm Norris Community Center 755 8th Ave So.
• January 8 – Park Shore Association Forum. 3 – 5 pm Northern Trust, 4001 Tamiami Trail No.
• January 8 – River Park East Forum. 5:30 – 7:30 pm River Park Community Center 310 11th St No.
• January 13 – Gulf Shor Association Forum
• January 13 – League of Women Voters/Greater Naples Leadership/Collier Citizens Council.
• January 15 – Moorings Park/Gulf Shore Association Forum. 250 6th St So.

Patriots, the clock is ticking. Low turnout has silenced conservatives for too long—don’t let it happen again. Request your Vote-by-Mail ballot today by clicking here, attend a forum, and share this with every Naples voter you know. Our city’s future hangs in the balance, and with your action, we’ll deliver the change we’ve demanded.