Primary Day Readiness

Over the course of this research program, LGAI has documented that Commissioners Neunder and Smith presided over $876 million in new spending and debt, cast zero NO votes on any budget, and approved a $100 million government building. Knowing this complete record, how do you rate their performance?

The county's own staff projects multi-year budget deficits beginning FY2028. Given that the current commissioners created these conditions through their spending and debt votes, should they be trusted to manage the consequences?

Commissioner Smith said 'We're spending money we won't have' — then voted YES on the largest budget in county history. Commissioner Neunder shut down even a 3% budget cut discussion. Do these actions represent fiscal conservatism?

FINAL ASSESSMENT: How likely are you to vote AGAINST the re-election of Commissioner Joe Neunder on August 18?

FINAL ASSESSMENT: How likely are you to vote AGAINST the re-election of Commissioner Mark Smith on August 18?

Jim DeNiro (District 4 challenger) is a retired 30-year Sarasota PD sergeant endorsed by the Florida PBA. Kristina Sargent (District 2 challenger) is a U.S. Army veteran and prosecutor. Both have signed written reform pledges. Do you support the reform ticket?

Have you already requested your mail-in ballot or do you plan to vote early for the August 18 Republican Primary?

Will you encourage at least 3 friends, family members, or neighbors to vote in the August 18 primary?

Have you shared any LGAI research or SarasotaCountyFacts.org findings with others?

Which single fact from this research program has been most impactful to you?

Would you be willing to provide a brief testimonial about why accountability matters in Sarasota County government? (Your name would not be published without permission.)

After participating in this research program, do you believe independent fiscal accountability research like this is valuable for your community?