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Gilzean Proposes $1M for Voter Outreach and Cybersecurity

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Orange County Supervisor of Elections, Glen Gilzean speaks to black voters at Orlando City Commissioner District 5 Candidates Forum at Jones High School, Thursday, May 9, 2024. Photo by J Willie David, III / Florida National News

[Orange County, Florida, May 9, 2024] – Orange County Supervisor of Elections, Glen Gilzean, unveils a groundbreaking budget that not only boosts voter outreach and education but also strengthens cybersecurity to ensure election integrity. Recognizing the growing threat of cyber-attacks on election infrastructure, Supervisor Gilzean has allocated a significant portion of the budget to implementing robust cybersecurity measures designed to protect voter data and safeguard election processes.

Supervisor Gilzean aims to set a new standard for electoral efficiency and transparency, underpinned by a comprehensive approach to community engagement and fiscal responsibility. “Our democracy thrives when every voice is heard, and every vote counts,” stated Supervisor Gilzean. “By investing in outreach and education initiatives, we empower our citizens to actively participate in the democratic process. Thanks to local input from the community, we present a budget that honors taxpayers and increases opportunities for more citizens to access their right to vote. This budget enhances voter engagement while delivering significant savings for Orange County taxpayers.”

To address the growing threats of cyber-attacks and data breaches, the proposed budget includes key investments in advanced cybersecurity technologies, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and data encryption. This step underscores the priority Orange County places on protecting the integrity of its elections and ensuring that voter data remains secure.

Community leaders demonstrate the support for Supervisor Gilzean’s budget proposal:

Ms. Rose Morris, President of Apopka Progressive Seniors Club, said, “Many seniors like myself have fought hard to secure the right to vote, and I’m glad to see that Supervisor Gilzean is investing in voter education and outreach. By ensuring every vote is counted and every voice is heard, he is honoring the legacy of those who fought for democracy and making it easier for everyone to participate.”

Pastor Jimmy Siberio, Iglesia Oasis, remarked, “By investing in cybersecurity, Supervisor Gilzean is ensuring that every vote is protected. The focus on bilingual community outreach—in both English and Spanish—demonstrates a commitment to making sure that all members of our community are informed and engaged in the democratic process.”

Pastor Hezekiah Bradford Jr., President of Ministerial Alliance, commented, “This budget shows that Supervisor Gilzean is serious about protecting our votes and our voices. The investment in cybersecurity ensures that we can trust the system, and the increase in voter education means more people from our communities will be informed and engaged.”

The proposed budget by Supervisor Glen Gilzean marks a pivotal moment in Orange County’s electoral landscape, setting a precedent for effective governance, community involvement, and fiscal prudence. As the budget proposal moves forward for consideration and approval, Supervisor Gilzean remains steadfast in his commitment to advancing democracy, transparency, and accountability in Orange County.

 

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Central Florida News

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

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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.

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Central Florida News

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

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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.

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Central Florida News

State Rep. Bruce Antone Wins Reelection Unopposed

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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.

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