Ballotpedia’s Candidate Connection survey: Florida roundup


Florida is holding elections, including for state legislative offices, on Aug. 20, 2024. A number of candidates running in these elections completed Ballotpedia’s Candidate Connection survey. These survey responses allow voters to hear directly from candidates about what motivates them to run for office.

Below is a selection of responses from a candidate who filled out the survey as of Nov. 20. To read the candidate’s full responses, click his name at the bottom of the article.

Stephen Shives (R) is running for Florida House of Representatives District 27, and the Republican primary is on Aug. 20. Here’s how Shives responded to the following questions:

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

“Insurance rates in Florida are some if the highest in the nation, and largely due to money hungry lawyer’s; outrageous healthcare billing; and greedy contractors. I will look for ways to create a more competitive market to lower rates for everyone

Gun Rights – I will always defend our Second Amendment rights to keep and bear arms; and a person’s right to defend their life; family; and livelihood

Inflation – As one committed to living debt free, I believe government must be steered in that same direction. I will fight to cut taxes and regulation and stop out-of-control government spending.”

What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

  • “Religious Freedom – I will always fight to protect a person’s freedom to worship how they choose; for preachers to preach the truth; and for anyone to pray when they wish to pray
  • The American Dream – I will work to support the entrepreneurial spirit that keeps the dream alive
  • The Fight for Family – Reagan said it best, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.” Traditional family unit is being attacked from every angle. Our children NEED to see us take a stand to reinforce conservative values.”

Click here to read the rest of Shives’ answers. 

If you’re a Florida candidate or incumbent, click here to take the survey. The survey contains over 30 questions, and you can choose the ones you feel will best represent your views to voters. If you complete the survey, a box with your answers will display on your Ballotpedia profile. Your responses will also populate the information that appears in our mobile app, My Vote Ballotpedia.

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