Wide gaps in campaign fundraising so far for mayor and commission seats

The first financial reports show who is winning the money race so far as the first candidate debates approach

Jan. 12, 2024

By Beth Kassab

The first fundraising reports for the period Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, 2023 are in and show two candidates bringing in cash at a far faster pace than their opponents.

Jason Johnson, an attorney and candidate for Seat 2 on the City Commission, has raised more than $24,000, the most of the five candidates in two races. He loaned about $1,600 of his own money to his campaign.

Stockton Reeves, the executive director at the Center for Public Safety, has raised about $6,300, including $3,000 he loaned his own campaign, and Winter Park High School teacher and coach Craig Russell, who is also running for Seat 2, has raised about $700.

Meanwhile, Mayoral candidate and current Commissioner Sheila DeCiccio raised $15,000, according to the filing. Her opponent, real estate school owner Michael Cameron, reported $310 in contributions, mostly in the form of his own contributions to himself.

With the March 19 election just over two months away, the public candidate forums are quickly approaching. The Winter Park Library will hold the first one for the Seat 2 candidates on Jan. 22. A second for the mayoral candidates will be held Feb. 8. The events are free and open to the public.

The Winter Park Chamber of Commerce will host a forum for all five candidates on Feb. 7, which is also free and open to the public.

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