Why Every Vote Matters in Florida’s 12th District
Taking a Stand for Democracy
When I decided to run for Congress in Florida’s 12th District, I saw something troubling: the seat was uncontested. The Republican incumbent, Gus Bilirakis, faced no real challenge. If no Democrat stepped up, he could easily use his resources to support other Republicans and even Donald Trump. By entering this race, I made him spend a lot of money—$1.5 million out of the $1.6 million he has raised so far.
More Than Just Money
This isn’t just about the money; it’s about our democracy. With my campaign, Bilirakis has to defend his record and actively engage with voters. He can no longer take his position for granted. This is crucial because every candidate should be held accountable to the people they represent.
A Grassroots Campaign for Real Issues
I am running a grassroots campaign that focuses on important issues like climate change and hurricane preparedness. While we’ve only raised $40,000, we have made a big difference. We’ve helped hurricane victims, created a Florida Green New Deal, and employed many university students to register voters on campuses across Florida. These actions show that even small contributions can lead to significant change.
Keeping Accountability Alive
If I hadn’t entered this race, Bilirakis could have easily coasted through the election. He might have redirected his funds to support Trump’s presidential campaign or saved them for future elections. But my campaign is here to ensure that he knows he has to work for every vote. This is what a real Democratic race looks like—making sure politicians are accountable to their constituents instead of taking their support for granted.
A Victory for Democracy
If my presence in this race keeps $1.5 million away from national GOP priorities and Trump’s campaign, then that is already a win for democracy. Every dollar not spent on divisive politics is a step towards a better future for all of us.
FAQ’s
1. Why did you decide to run for Congress in Florida’s 12th District?
I decided to run because I noticed that the seat was uncontested and the Republican incumbent, Gus Bilirakis, faced no significant challenge. I believed it was essential to provide voters with a choice and ensure that their voices were heard in this election.
2. How has your candidacy impacted Gus Bilirakis’s campaign?
My entry into the race has forced Bilirakis to spend significantly on his campaign—$1.5 million of the $1.6 million he has raised so far. This has made him actively defend his record and engage with constituents, which he might not have done otherwise.
3. What are the main issues your campaign is focusing on?
My campaign is centered around addressing critical issues such as climate change and hurricane preparedness. We aim to create sustainable solutions that benefit our community and protect our environment.
4. How much money has your campaign raised compared to Bilirakis’s campaign?
While my campaign has raised approximately $40,000, Bilirakis has raised about $1.6 million. However, despite the disparity in funds, we have made a substantial impact through grassroots efforts.
5. What initiatives have you implemented with the funds raised?
With the funds we have raised, we have assisted hurricane victims, developed a Florida Green New Deal, and engaged university students in voter registration efforts across campuses in Florida.
6. What is the Florida Green New Deal?
The Florida Green New Deal is an initiative aimed at addressing climate change by promoting renewable energy, sustainable practices, and job creation in green industries. It focuses on creating a healthier environment for all Floridians.
7. How does your campaign differ from traditional Democratic campaigns?
My campaign is focused on grassroots engagement and accountability. Unlike Project 2025, which may prioritize national GOP interests, my goal is to ensure that politicians are held accountable to their constituents and address local issues directly.
8. Why is it important to have a Democratic challenger in this election?
Having a Democratic challenger is crucial for democracy. It provides voters with a choice and ensures that the incumbent cannot take their support for granted. It also encourages healthy political discourse and accountability.
9. How can people support your campaign?
People can support my campaign by contributing financially through our Actblue link: secure.actblue.com/…. Additionally, they can volunteer, spread the word, and participate in our grassroots efforts to Get Out The Vote.
10. What does “Get Out The Vote” mean in the context of your campaign?
“Get Out The Vote” refers to our efforts to encourage and mobilize voters to participate in the election. This includes organizing events, providing information on how to vote, and ensuring that every voice is heard in the democratic process.
11. What challenges do you anticipate in your campaign?
Some challenges include overcoming the significant funding advantage of my opponent, reaching voters effectively, and combating misinformation. However, I believe that our grassroots approach will resonate with the community and help us succeed.
12. How do you plan to address climate change if elected?
If elected, I plan to advocate for policies that promote renewable energy, support sustainable agriculture, and invest in infrastructure that enhances resilience against climate-related disasters. Collaboration with local organizations and communities will be key to these efforts.
13. What role do university students play in your campaign?
University students are vital to our campaign as they help register voters and engage their peers in political discussions. Their involvement not only increases voter turnout but also fosters a sense of civic responsibility among young people.
14. How do you view the current political landscape in Florida?
The political landscape in Florida is dynamic and often polarized. However, I believe there is a strong desire among many Floridians for change and representation that prioritizes community needs over partisan interests.
15. What message do you want to convey to voters in Florida’s 12th District?
I want voters to know that their voices matter and that they deserve a representative who listens to their concerns and fights for their interests. Together, we can build a better future for our community and hold our leaders accountable.