Manatee County Elections: Dunn enters D1 vs Drake, Ference D6, Ballard D2, Rahn D4 Races
Key Questions
Who is running in the Manatee County District 1 commission race?
Parrish resident Arnold has entered the District 1 race following the death of Commissioner Felts in February, focusing on rural protection and transparency. The race also includes candidates Dunn and Drake ahead of the August 18 primary.
Why is Commissioner Felts' seat still vacant?
Governor Ron DeSantis has made multiple appointments in recent months but has not yet filled the Manatee County Commission seat left empty after Felts' death in February.
What are the key issues in upcoming Manatee County commission races?
District 1 focuses on growth management and rural protection, while Districts 2, 4, and 6 address infrastructure, development, and competition among candidates including Ference, Ballard, and Rahn. The August 18 primary also covers upgrades at the Supervisor of Elections office and the CD16 race between Gruters and Kirschner.
Aug18 primary: SOE upgrades; D1 forum on growth with Arnold (Parrish) entering on rural protection/transparency; D6 Ference vs rivals; D4/D2 infra/dev; CD16 Gruters vs Kirschner.