PORT CHARLOTTE — Christopher Constance is running for Charlotte County Commission District 2.

Constance, an incumbent who is seeking a fifth term, will run against John Fleming. Both candidates are registered as Republicans.

Constance has raised $88,025 for his campaign and Fleming has raised $24,987.

The winner between the two candidates will be decided in the primary election on Aug. 18.

Constance has lived in the area since 1994. He is a plastic surgeon with a private practice. He also serves on a number of committees including hospital boards.

Constance said he is running again because he does not think there is someone else who can handle the current issues.

“This is an important job. I’m really blessed,” he said.

Constance spoke to having experience and how it can be important. Elected officials who are “wet behind the ears” oftentimes do not get the time to figure things out, according to Constance.

When asked about term limits, Constance said “we have term limits. It’s called a voting booth.”

Constance praised the current commission as a “collegial group.” He referenced the expertise of some of his fellow commissioners who have been getting things done.

Constance is proud of efforts for clean water, sales tax accomplishments, storm resilience projects and more.

Going into the future, Constance wants to utilize AI to save money. He did, however, express concerns about data centers.

Constance also wants to set up the younger generation to become HVAC workers, plumbers, electricians, nurses and fire medics as those are professions where people are most needed. He brought up an idea to have Advent Health work with local schools.

“I want 100 RNs a year. I want a school where we’re just pumping them out,” Constance said.

Constance also talked about the property tax reform on the ballot and warned about potential cuts to service.

“But if the will of the voters is for this to pass we will deal with it,” he said.

Finally, Constance said he likes to keep conversations in “the sunshine,” unlike at the state level, so people are aware. Then, people can get involved in the conversations and have a say.

“I care about this community so much,” Constance said.