Lee County Supervisor of Elections Tommy Doyle announced his retirement after nearly a decade of leading the office. Doyle, who was first elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2020 and 2024, will step down on January 14, 2026.
Doyle said it has been an honor to serve Lee County, but after a recent health concern, he feels it’s time to step back and spend more time with his family. Doyle has spent years shaping how Lee County runs its elections.
Under his leadership, the elections office expanded voter outreach, updated voting equipment, improved cybersecurity, restructured departments, and opened a new branch in Lehigh Acres.
“I had a little health issue this year, and so I want to step down and retire so I can enjoy my time with my family and my wife,” said Doyle.
Reflecting on his tenure, Doyle shared some of the challenges his office faced and what he is most proud of.
“There’s a lot of things I’m proud of. I’m proud of every election that we have conducted while I’m in office has been a historical event,” said Doyle. “Hurricane Irma is another one. COVID. Ian. Those are some very challenging situations… especially when Hurricane Ian — we had an executive order from the governor, and then we only had 12 sites to vote at. That was very stressful.”
Lee County Elections confirmed that state law requires the governor to appoint a new supervisor after Doyle steps down.
That appointee will serve until the 2026 general election when voters will choose the next supervisor.
When asked about the qualities he hopes his successor will bring, Doyle said, “Dedication… dedicated to the job… and be able to collaborate with the staff and listen to the staff and be open and be ready.”
As the community awaits the governor’s announcement of a replacement, Doyle’s departure marks the end of an era for Lee County elections.