Several candidates for political office presented their views and platforms at the Frederick Kelly Elks Lodge on Martin Luther King Boulevard in Brooksville on Thursday, April 9. The forum was sponsored by the Hernando Community Conversation, giving each candidate time to introduce themselves and answer questions from the community.
Silvia Dukes, Republican candidate for County Commission, spoke first about her 20-year residency in Hernando County and her work as a realtor. Dukes, who is active in the Rotary Club and various volunteer activities, emphasized the need for government transparency to rebuild citizens’ trust in elected officials. “Leadership means serving everyone – regardless of our differences, affiliation, or background – and every voice deserves to be heard,” Dukes stated. She advocates for lower taxes, better use of tax money, and responsible growth.
Christopher Anger, a 39-year Hernando County resident and Constitution Party of Florida member, is running for the District 53 seat in the Florida House of Representatives. Anger presented a written contract outlining his commitments to constituents, including refusing to become a realtor or land developer, accepting financial support only from individuals rather than corporations or PACs, and avoiding personal attacks. “Without communication, trust stops. When people are willing to sit down and communicate, we find out we have things in common,” Anger explained.
Maxwell Glenn, a Republican candidate for county commissioner who grew up in Hernando County, describes himself as a conservationist. Glenn expressed concerns about overdevelopment problems and infrastructure challenges facing the county. The forum provided local voters an opportunity to hear directly from candidates about their positions on key issues affecting Hernando County residents.
Originally reported by Hernando Sun
Sources: Hernando Sun
