With state Rep. Angie Nixon[1] exploring a run for U.S. Senate, a familiar face is resurfacing as a candidate in 2026.
And another one may be in the race soon.
Former Jacksonville City Councilman Reggie Gaffney Sr.[2] is in the House District 13 Democratic Primary.
And Audrey Gibson, the former leader of the Senate Democrats, could file as soon as next week.
Both are among the best known Democrats in Duval County, with considerable political experience.
And both are recovering from recent political setbacks.
Gaffney served most of two terms, leaving the Council for what was an unsuccessful run against Tracie Davis[3] for the Florida Senate in 2022, after Gibson was term limited.
Gibson ran to be chair of the Florida Democratic Party[4] after leaving the administration of Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan[5] last year, but ultimately fell short in her bid to replace Nikki Fried.
Political newcomer Shemiah Rutledge[6] is already in the race, but Gaffney and Gibson will complicate any path she might have had.
Whoever wins the primary likely wins the seat, given the Democratic registration edge in the Duval County district.
If elected, Gaffney promises to bring the “same energy” to Tallahassee that he did to City Hall, vowing to “build relationships” and “work across the aisle” for economic development, job creation, mental health and education.
He laments that in Washington and state government, people don’t work together across party lines.
“From Day 1, I’ll know the Governor’s name, the key members in the House. I’ll make a difference,” he told Florida Politics.
He also promises to make appropriations a priority for the district, which includes much of Jacksonville’s Urban Core.
Gibson notes that she told Gaffney she would run weeks ago, and is excited about the opportunity to serve in office again.
As a former leader of the Senate Democrats, she is well acquainted with the process in the State Capital, and has been productive in scoring wins for her constituents also.
Gibson confirmed Nixon was not running for a fourth term in the House before deciding to run.
References
- ^ Angie Nixon (floridapolitics.com)
- ^ Reggie Gaffney Sr. (floridapolitics.com)
- ^ Tracie Davis (floridapolitics.com)
- ^ Florida Democratic Party (floridapolitics.com)
- ^ Donna Deegan (www.news4jax.com)
- ^ Shemiah Rutledge (floridapolitics.com)