Whiplash and unexpected upsets: Primary provides election excitement on Emerald Coast
Primary night in Okaloosa and Walton Counties saw low voter turnout, leading to a mix of predictable incumbent victories and a major shakeup in local government. While Okaloosa voters largely stuck with incumbents, Walton County voters delivered a significant upset in the Commission District 2 race, signaling potential change ahead.
A mysterious newcomer crashes the Walton Commission race.
A fourth candidate, Frederick Carley, has entered the race for Walton County Commissioner District 4 as a write-in candidate. His entry effectively closes the August 18 Republican primary, restricting voting access to registered Republicans and impacting the contest between incumbent Donna Johns, Jim Bagby, and James Calkins.
After Two National Incidents in Six Months, Okaloosa Sheriff Race Has A Challenger
Crestview resident and Florida Highway Patrol Sergeant Ron Livingston has announced his candidacy for Okaloosa County Sheriff, challenging incumbent Sheriff Eric Aden. Livingston, with over two decades of experience as a trainer at the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, emphasizes the need for more training for deputies to prevent incidents like the shooting of Senior Airman Roger Fortson. Facing a significant financial disadvantage, Livingston must garner support quickly before the August 20 primary.
