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State Senator 13 Choose 1

Serves staggered 4-year terms with a limit of 2 consecutive terms. There are 40 Senators. The 2023 salary was $29,697 (plus travel and subsistence). Only requirement is to pass a balanced state budget.

Voter Guide

Candidate picture

Stephanie L Dukes (Dem)

Biographical Information

Education University of South Florida (A.A.); Florida State University (B.S.)
Hometown Clermont, FL
County Lake
Campaign Website http://Vote4Dukes.com
Campaign Phone 3529786924
Campaign Mailing Address P.O. Box 120522
Clermont, FL 34712

What are the two most important challenges facing Florida and, if elected, what actions will you take to address them within your first six months in office? (700 characters)

Two of Florida’s most pressing challenges are affordable workforce housing and access to quality healthcare. We will prioritize expanding affordable housing by collaborating with state and local leaders to increase funding for housing projects, starting with the intent purpose and full allocation of the Sadowski Trust Fund and streamlining zoning regulations. For healthcare, we will focus on expanding Medicaid and improving access for women and affordable health services by supporting telemedicine initiatives and advocating for the Health Equity and Accountability Act to address disparities. In our first six months, both efforts will strengthen communities and enhance Floridians’ well-being.

Insufficient affordable housing is hurting Florida families and limiting Florida’s economy. What state measures do you support to address the affordable housing crisis? (600 characters)

Our platform is dedicated to supporting the duly allotted funding for the Sadowski Trust Fund, including the State Housing Initiatives Partnership, to propel the growth of affordable workforce housing.Expanding tax incentives for developers who contribute to building homeless rehabilitation shelters and affordable housing units and fostering strong public-private partnerships will further address the crisis. Protecting renters from excessive rent hikes by providing landlords with property tax rate reductions and improving access to down payment assistance will help struggling Florida families.

What legislative actions are necessary to improve voter access to the ballot and promote voter participation in elections? (600 characters)

To ensure every eligible Floridian has the opportunity to vote freely and fairly, it is imperative to pass legislation that expands early voting and vote-by-mail options. Automatic voter registration linked to obtaining a driver’s license, an identification(ID) card, and the automatic restoration of voting rights for returning citizens upon completing their sentences will boost voter participation. Enhancing voter education efforts, safeguarding polling places in underserved areas, and prohibiting restrictive voter ID laws are essential to empowering Floridians to exercise their right to vote.

What legislative action would you propose to protect Florida’s environment and natural resources? (600 characters)

Representing a county with over 1,000 lakes, legislation safeguarding water quality is vital for our ecosystem’s well-being and the economy’s prosperity. We support clean energy initiatives such as expanding solar power and providing incentives for renewable energy use. These measures are imperative to reducing reliance on fossil fuels, a key step towards a more sustainable future. We advocate for environmentally sensitive areas, Everglades restoration, the promotion of sustainable tourism, and the funding of conservation programs to ensure Florida’s natural resources for future generations.

What is your stance on access to abortion? (600 characters)

The 993,387 signatures provided Power to the People of the 891,523 petition signatures required for Reproductive Rights to be considered as an amendment to the Florida Constitution. The People, Democrats, Republicans, Independents, and other political party members will be heard on November 5th, 2024, as they cast their votes for Amendment 4 - Amendment to Limit Government Interference with Abortion. Voices of women, men, and families will be heard. We shall hear from the People.

What legislation would you support to better protect our youth and the public at large from gun violence? (600 characters)

Legislation for universal background checks, closing loopholes that allow private gun sales without screenings, implementing red flag laws to remove firearms from individuals temporarily deemed a threat, and exempting risk protective order (RPO) cases for juveniles from public record. We oppose owning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Additionally, promoting community-based violence prevention programs and increasing funding for mental health services in schools can help protect our youth and the public from gun violence while preserving responsible gun ownership.

What is your plan to ensure that all Florida students have access to a high-quality education? (600 characters)

Advocate for higher salaries (to attract and retain the best) for new and experienced teachers to ensure all Florida students have access to high-quality education. Support increasing funding for public schools, especially in underserved communities. Expand access to early childhood education and strengthen career and technical education programs to better equip students for future success. Furthermore, supporting policies that reduce disparities in school funding and student outcomes, such as reducing class sizes and investing in updated educational resources and technology, is essential.

Voter Guide

Candidate picture

Keith Truenow (Rep)

Biographical Information

Age 54
Education High School
Hometown Tavares, FL
County Lake
Campaign Website http://www.keithtruenow.com/
Campaign Twitter Handle @SodFatherFL
Instagram keithtruenowforflstatesenate13/
Campaign Phone 3522343031
Campaign Mailing Address P.O. Box 1029
Tavares, FL 32778

What are the two most important challenges facing Florida and, if elected, what actions will you take to address them within your first six months in office? (700 characters)

Candidate has not yet responded.

Insufficient affordable housing is hurting Florida families and limiting Florida’s economy. What state measures do you support to address the affordable housing crisis? (600 characters)

Candidate has not yet responded.

What legislative actions are necessary to improve voter access to the ballot and promote voter participation in elections? (600 characters)

Candidate has not yet responded.

What legislative action would you propose to protect Florida’s environment and natural resources? (600 characters)

Candidate has not yet responded.

What is your stance on access to abortion? (600 characters)

Candidate has not yet responded.

What legislation would you support to better protect our youth and the public at large from gun violence? (600 characters)

Candidate has not yet responded.

What is your plan to ensure that all Florida students have access to a high-quality education? (600 characters)

Candidate has not yet responded.