ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Central Florida voters are headed to the polls Tuesday for the primary election, with affordability emerging as a major issue in one of the region’s biggest local races: the race for Orange County mayor.
Early voters have been turning out at polling locations, including on Kaley Street, in the days leading up to Election Day.
For many, the rising cost of living has been a major issue.
All four candidates made affordability a central part of their closing arguments Monday night, but they offered very different approaches to addressing the issue.
The race to replace term-limited Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings features former Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy, Orange County Clerk Tiffany Moore Russell, County Commissioner Mayra Uribe and businessman Chris Messina.
Murphy says residents are feeling the financial squeeze every day and need relief from the rising cost of living.
Russell is pointing to her record at the Orange County Clerk of Courts, including efforts to increase employee pay, as evidence she can deliver results quickly.
Uribe is making a similar argument based on her experience in county government. She says that experience gives her a clear understanding of where the county can cut waste and find savings.
Messina is focusing on property taxes. He supports Amendment 3, which would increase the homestead exemption for qualifying homeowners.
With polls now open across Orange County, voters will decide which candidate they want to lead the county as affordability remains a key concern.
The election could be decided Tuesday, but not necessarily.
If no candidate receives more than 50% of the vote, the top two finishers will advance to a November runoff.
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