Become a Candidate
There are many opportunities for dynamic, viable Democratic candidates to win elected local positions.
We Can Help! Contact Us.
Individuals considering running for public office as a Democrat within Charlotte County are encouraged to contact Charlotte County Democrats at (941) 764-8440 or by email at vice-chair@charlottedems.com to make their interests known and to learn what resources may be available to assist them in running their campaign. We’ll ask you questions, give you a forum to tell us what you’re all about, and hear why you want to run. We can provide more advice about the office you’re interested in including demographics, financial requirements, fundraising needs, and your general viability as a candidate. We do not endorse Democratic candidates for public office until after primary elections take place. This is a consistent practice followed by the Florida Democratic Party and its affiliated county organizations throughout the state.
Network
State Offices
Election Tuesday, November 5th 2024
In 2024, state elections will include the District 27 Florida Senate seat, and the District 75 & District 76 Florida House seats.
County Offices
Election Tuesday, November 5th 2024
Charlotte County elections will include the County Commissioners in Districts 1, 3 and 5, the School Board seats in Districts 2, 3, and 5, the Supervisor of Elections, Tax Collector, Property Appraiser, and Sheriff, among others.
City of Punta Gorda
Election Tuesday, November 7th 2023
Punta Gorda will hold elections in 2023 for council members in Districts 3 and 5.
Election Tuesday, November 7th 2023
In 2024, elections will include City Council seats in Districts 1, 2, and 4.
Get to Know Your Future Constituents
As a potential candidate, we want you to be prepared to take on the challenge of running for office. If your race is at the state or federal level, we’ll encourage you to spread out to the district you’re interested in. Get behind the wheel and road-trip to all communities and rural areas where voters live and work. Become involved in issues and organizations that impact everyone. Meet people everywhere and start making connections if you haven’t already.
In addition, you should connect with Democratic Women’s Clubs and Democratic Clubs in all locations where your chosen office has an impact. Your networking efforts could also include becoming involved in civic organizations where you intend to run. Consider attending public forums, governmental meetings, and Chamber of Commerce events. Volunteer opportunities for residents are also available from both Charlotte County and the City of Punta Gorda are also great ways to get involved.
Networking Opportunities:
- Charlotte County Airport Authority
- Charlotte County Board of Commissioners
- Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce
- Punta Gorda Boards and Committees
- Punta Gorda City Council
US Congressional District 17 includes 10 counties in SW and Central Florida. Democratic Executive Committees can be contacted at the following links:
Charlotte, Desoto, Glades, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Okeechobee, Polk
Local Office Information
Punta Gorda Election Information
Charlotte County Candidate Info
Getting Started
Important Dates: Click IMPORTANT DATES in the Candidate Quick Reference Guide here
Forms and Information
Find City of Punta Gorda Qualifying procedures and a full list of required documents for your candidacy here.
Punta Gorda Documents
District Maps
