Connect with us

Central Florida News

Former Volusia Sheriff Ben Johnson Endorses Charles Gambaro in Florida’s 6th Congressional District Race

Published

on

Photo: Charles Gambaro for Congress

DELAND, Fla. (FNN) — Former Volusia County Sheriff and County Councilman Ben Johnson announced his endorsement of Charles Gambaro, a Republican candidate for Florida’s 6th Congressional District, ahead of the Aug. 18, 2026, primary.

Johnson, who served more than 46 years in public service — including 43 years with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office and 16 years as elected sheriff — cited Gambaro’s leadership, military background and focus on public safety in his endorsement.

ENDORSEMENT HIGHLIGHTS

In a statement, Johnson praised Gambaro’s experience and ties to the community.

“General Gambaro has served his community and his country with honor for over 26 years,” Johnson said. “He is one of us. He has lived in our community for decades, understands the issues, and has the track record and courage to drive positive change on issues that are important to our residents.”

Johnson also highlighted Gambaro’s military service and support from law enforcement.

“He is a highly decorated combat veteran who has led our troops in battle and has the unyielding support of law enforcement and first responders. Charlie has my full endorsement, and I encourage our residents and community leaders to support his campaign,” Johnson added.

GAMBARO RESPONDS

Gambaro expressed appreciation for Johnson’s endorsement, calling him a respected leader in the community.

“I am deeply honored to receive the support of Sheriff Ben Johnson, a true leader in Florida law enforcement,” Gambaro said. “His decades of service and leadership are an inspiration.”

He added that his campaign will focus on key issues affecting residents.

“Together, we will work to deliver results for our communities — stronger borders, safer neighborhoods, and a government that works for the people, not special interests,” Gambaro said.

CAMPAIGN MOMENTUM

The endorsement signals continued support for Gambaro among some law enforcement leaders and conservative voters in the district as the primary election approaches.

Florida’s 6th Congressional District race is expected to draw attention as candidates campaign across the region ahead of the August primary.

Continue Reading

Central Florida News

State Rep. Rita Harris Reelected Without Opposition in Florida House District 44

Published

on

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Florida State Representative Rita Harris has secured reelection to the Florida House after no opposition qualified to challenge her in District 44 during the state’s candidate qualifying period.

Harris, a Democrat representing House District 44, will return to Tallahassee for another term after neither a Republican, third-party nor write-in candidate entered the race.

Her uncontested reelection reflects continued support within the district and allows her campaign to shift its focus toward supporting Democratic candidates and legislative priorities ahead of the 2027 Legislative Session.

House District 44 includes portions of west Orange County and surrounding communities in Central Florida.

Florida’s General Election is scheduled for Nov. 3, 2026.

Continue Reading

Central Florida News

Congressman Maxwell Frost Secures Third-Term Run Following Candidate Qualifying Period

Published

on

US Congressman Maxwell Frost gives federal update

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — U.S. Rep. Maxwell Alejandro Frost secured an easy path to a third term representing Florida’s 10th Congressional District after no Democratic, Republican or write-in challengers qualified before the close of Florida’s candidate qualifying period Friday.

“I’m proud that the people of Central Florida continue to put their trust in me, and I don’t take that for granted,” Frost said. “Over the last term, we’ve delivered real results, and now it’s time to build on that.”

Campaign Focuses on Down-Ballot Races

Despite facing no major-party opposition, Frost said his campaign is expanding its political operation to help Democrats compete across Central Florida.

“We’re focused on electing Democrats up and down the ballot.”

The campaign has recruited 87 fellows this summer as part of its year-round organizing program for young people ages 16 to 24. Campaign officials said participants will engage in door-to-door canvassing, phone banking and voter outreach efforts while supporting Democratic candidates throughout the region.

According to the campaign, more than 162 fellows have participated in the program, helping contact more than 157,000 voters during the current election cycle.

Historic Member of Congress

Frost made history in 2022 as the first member of Generation Z elected to Congress. He represents Florida’s 10th Congressional District, which includes much of Orlando and surrounding portions of Orange County.

Continue Reading

Central Florida News

State Rep. Bruce Antone Wins Reelection Unopposed

Published

on

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Florida State Representative Bruce Antone has won reelection to the Florida House after qualifying for the 2026 election cycle without opposition.

Antone, who represents portions of Orange County, remains the longest-serving Democratic state lawmaker in Orange County and one of the most senior members of Florida’s Democratic legislative delegation.

Following his reelection, Antone thanked supporters in a statement posted on Facebook.

“Today, I was reelected to the Florida House of Representatives. I didn’t have any opposition. Thank you to everyone who has supported me during my time and tenure in the Florida House of Representatives,” Antone wrote.

Under Florida election law, candidates who qualify for office without opposition are automatically elected and do not appear on the ballot.

Antone will begin another term in the Florida House as lawmakers prepare for the 2027 Legislative Session in Tallahassee.

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Advertisement Ticket Time Machine ad
Advertisement Orlando Regional REALTOR Association logo
Advertisement Parts Pass App
Advertisement Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando
Advertisement
Advertisement African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida
Advertisement FNN News en Español
Advertisement Indian American Chamber of Commerce logo
Advertisement Florida Sports Channel

FNN Newsletter

Trending