ORLANDO, Fla. — Tiffany Moore Russell and Chris Messina are going toe-to-toe to see who will replace Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings.
Neither secured 50% of the vote during the primary election, so the mayoral race will be decided in today’s runoff.
Russell said her time in office makes her well-qualified.
“The people know that they have someone who’s experienced, who understands the importance of the job and the magnitude of what’s being asked to take over,” she said.
Messina said he will boost Central Florida’s economy.
“I’ve really focused a lot on economic development, which is something that we desperately need here in Orange County,” he said.
Messina is an entrepreneur, the founder of a medical tech company, trade associations and a foundation to serve families who have children with disabilities. He said that thinking like a chief executive officer helps to solve problems.
“The county is a big business, and so we need to apply business skills in terms of financial management, in terms of vision casting, in terms of direction,” Messina said.
Russell is a former Orange County commissioner and former Orange County Clerk of Courts.
She said voters are familiar with her and her track record.
“They can get someone who is trusted, where I’ve been elected as a district commissioner and countywide, but also someone who is measured,” Russell said. “You know, measured leadership shows it’s important to have a plan and is strategic about moving that forward.”
Polls close at 7 p.m.