Tallahassee, FL – Today, the Florida Democratic Party announced twelve candidates selected for its 2026 Take Back Local program, an initiative dedicated to building Democratic power in the local races that shape communities every day, from school boards to city commissions.
Each candidate was selected through a rigorous application and vetting process and will receive grassroots organizing and fundraising support from the party through November.
“Local races decide who’s in the classroom, what our neighborhoods look like, and whether working families get a fair shake,” said Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried. “These candidates are running because they know their communities best, and they’re the ones knocking doors and having real conversations with their neighbors. This November, we’re building power from the ground up.”
TAKE BACK LOCAL
Builds Democratic power in local races that directly impact communities
- Christina Romelus, Palm Beach County School Board, District 4
- Daniela Simic, Hillsborough County School Board, District 2
- Debbie Jordan, Lee County School Board, District 4
- Donna Westrich, Duval County School Board, District 2
- Dylana Galery, Palm Coast City Council, District 4
- Flo Entler, Sarasota City Commission, At-Large
- Hunter Miller, Alachua County School Board, District 1
- Karen Perez, Hillsborough County School Board, District 6
- Kimberly Coward, Pasco County School Board, District 1
- Lisa Kessler, St. Lucie County School Board, District 5
- Roberto Fernandez, Broward County School Board, District 6
- Victor Sims, Polk County School Board, District 3
