Let’s Restore Trust in Monroe County – It Starts with Transparency
At Tuesday’s Hometown! Key West debate, my opponent, Jim Scholl, claimed that I’m trying to buy your vote. The truth, however, is that big developers are the ones trying to decide this race—and the proof is in the campaign finance reports.
The Monroe County Supervisor of Elections requires every candidate to disclose their campaign donations and who is funding them. This transparency allows us to see who truly influences the race. When I worked on campaigns in New Jersey, we fought to outlaw the practice known as “pay-to-play,” where donors expect government favors in return for contributions. While this isn’t illegal in Florida, it just doesn’t feel right.
Here’s what the reports show:
60% of my donations come from individuals living in Florida, and nearly 140 of those are Keys residents. None of these donors have any interest in over development or in increasing traffic and strain on our infrastructure.
Meanwhile, over half of Jim Scholl’s donations come from big developers, county contract holders, the lawyer pushing for the Publix project in Tavernier, and political action committees. This “pay-to-play” system is making life more expensive for you and creating a cycle of corruption that will only continue unless we make a change.
Today is the final day of the current campaign finance reporting period, and I will release my report before the next debate in Marathon on October 7. I’m committed to transparency and challenge Jim Scholl to do the same. Let’s be fully open with voters.
I am independent and cannot be bought. If elected, I will represent the people, not the corporate interests seeking to profit off compromising the safety and quality of life for our residents. I ask for your vote this November to restore trust in our government and get Monroe County back on the right track.
We are in the final stretch, with just 30 days left. Your support is critical. Visit Chris For Monroe to donate, request a yard sign, or volunteer to help us make the change we need.
Together, we can break this cycle of pay-to-play politics and move Monroe County forward.
