Three candidates vie for open Florida House seat

Voters in Florida’s 16th Congressional District will choose a new representative in the general election. The seat opens because Congressman Vern Buchanan announced he will retire at the end of his current term. Buchanan has served in Congress for 20 years. Three candidates are now competing to fill the vacancy.

The race began after Buchanan confirmed his departure. He had represented the district for two decades. The other candidates stepped forward to seek the nomination. The primary contests have narrowed the field to three individuals for the general election. Each candidate presents a different policy platform to voters in the region.

Democrat Kelly Kirschner describes himself as a third-generation Floridian. He previously worked in the Peace Corps helping Mayan farming families increase household income. He also served on the Sarasota City Commission, including one term as mayor. At a campaign event in Bradenton, Kirschner met with members of the Latino community. He stated he lived in Central America for over four years and speaks fluent Spanish.

Kirschner lists healthcare, cost of living, Gulf Coast protection, affordable economy, veterans, and ending wars of choice as his priorities. He noted that 48% of the population lives paycheck to paycheck. He called for the United States to exit Iran and establish affordable healthcare for all residents. He emphasized the need to address economic pressures facing local families.

Republican Sydney Gruters faces Kirschner in the race. She is the wife of Republican National Committee Chair Joe Gruters. Gruters spoke at a Vice President JD Vance rally in Lakeland in October. She said residents want to keep Florida safe, affordable, and free. Her campaign website states she worked for Congressman Greg Steube in 2018. She has more than a decade of experience in Washington, D.C. President Donald Trump has endorsed her. Her listed priorities include cost of living, inflation, border security, and housing costs.

Mark Davis runs as a third candidate without party affiliation. His website identifies him as a veteran and small business owner. He competes alongside the major party candidates in the general election. The race includes candidates from both major parties and an independent. Voters will select their representative in the upcoming general election.

The Clearwater Herald contacted the campaign for Sydney Gruters regarding an interview. The campaign did not respond before the publication deadline. Kirschner and Davis were available for their respective campaign events and interviews. The general election will determine who succeeds Buchanan in Congress.