Another person has filed to run for Tallahassee City Commissioner Jack Porter’s seat. WFSU’s Tristan Wood reports businessman David Wamsley is the fifth person filed to run for Seat 1.
Tallahassee businessman David Wamsley announced Wednesday he has entered the race. He launched his candidacy by publicly challenging Porter during a City Commission meeting.
He is a former local developer and founder of Rosebud Communications, an online advertising company that lists Los Angeles, Chicago and Tampa as its locations on its website.
Wamsley told WFSU he is running because he wants to end the 3-2 split at city hall and work to further affordable housing in the community. He also is unsatisfied with Porter’s performance.
“I think that most people, that I have listened to, that I have heard from going to the south side to the north side, from conservatives to liberals and a lot of folks that sit more in the middle like me, they all say to me anyone but Jack. And, so, you know, I thought I should get in the race, give them an option,” he said.
Wamsley entered the race with a bang, going to city hall the day he announced his campaign and challenging Porter during Commission public comment. He also complained that people were recording him at city hall.
“And what is interesting is that tonight people started to videotape me, talking to members of the commission or city manager. And I thought, wow it’s gonna be like that Jack. So, I would just like to say, perhaps we run a clean race. Keep it above board. And I look forward to debating you and the other three fine candidates for your seat,” he said.
Porter told WFSU she found Wamsley’s actions at the meeting, quote, “a little bit bizarre” but said she welcomes people in the race.
“This is part of the democratic process. Ultimately, I am proud of my record on the commission, I feel like I stood up for our residents effectively representing the voices of Tallahassee’s neighborhoods, and I am looking forward to continuing our work with the support of everyday people across all sides of town, pursuing what we believe is much needed reform at city hall,” she said.
The primary elections for local races will be on August 20th.
Margie Menzel contributed to this report.