ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. —
Excitement and enthusiasm are high as Orange County mayoral candidates Tiffany Moore Russell and Chris Messina make their final push ahead of Election Day.
On election eve, Tiffany Moore Russell’s campaign held a phone bank event at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Orlando. Russell, a former Orange County Clerk of Courts and commissioner, emphasized her experience as a key qualification for the role.
“They understand as a former commissioner understanding the legislative process, but also the experience of being the clerk, managing a budget, managing an organization, employees, all those things necessary to be the next mayor,” Russell said.
Russell expressed optimism about the election, saying, “I feel great. I’m excited. It’s the energy in the room of just this last-minute push to reach as many voters out there who have not cast their vote. I’m optimistic about what’s capable of happening tomorrow.”
Winter Park businessman Chris Messina, who touts 30 years of executive leadership experience, also shared his excitement about the campaign’s momentum.
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“We’re feeling great. It’s been so exciting. We have so many people who are just really enthusiastic about our campaign across every sector of Orange County, both geographically, ethnically, by occupation,” Messina said.
Messina highlighted his vision for the county, stating, “We want everybody to know we represent a new vision, a 21st-century vision for Orange County, not another recycled politician.”
The two candidates are in a runoff after no one secured 50 percent plus one vote in the August primary. Both encouraged voters to make their voices heard at the ballot box.
“This is the time for you to exercise your voice. If you’re upset by the price at the gas tank, or the price at grocery stores, or about who’s making decisions about your tax dollars, then you have to exercise that concern at the ballot box, the best place to do that,” Russell said.
Messina added, “I want to tell every voter, individually, that I care about you. I care about your story, your challenges, your hope, your dreams. I will work really hard to fulfill them.”
The successor to current Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings will be decided by tomorrow night. The race is nonpartisan, meaning all voters can participate regardless of party affiliation.
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