POLK COUNTY — WE NEED YOU!

By Animal Defenders of Polk County

Are you passionate about animals? , your community , and the future of Polk County, Florida? Then THIS is your moment.

An opportunity on the Polk County Board of Commissioners is open — and we need someone who truly CARES to fill it.

Imagine having the power to:

Fight for stronger animal welfare protections

Invest in safer, stronger neighborhoods

Tackle the real issues affecting everyday families in Polk County

Be the voice for those who have NO voice

You don’t have to be a politician. You just have to care — and be willing to show up. The best leaders aren’t found in boardrooms. They’re found right here in our community.

This is your chance to stop wishing things were different and start making them different.

HOW TO FILE & QUALIFY — HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Qualifying Period: Noon on Monday, June 8, 2026 through Noon on Friday, June 12, 2026

(Documents can be submitted starting May 25, 2026)

Where to File: Polk County Supervisor of Elections Office

(County candidates file directly with the county Supervisor of Elections — NOT the state)

Basic Requirements:

— Must be a registered voter in Polk County

— Must be a resident of the district you wish to represent

Steps to Get Started:

File the Appointment of Campaign Treasurer & Designation of Campaign Depository (Form DS-DE 9) — this must be done BEFORE accepting any contributions or spending any money

Within 10 days, file the Statement of Candidate (Form DS-DE 84) with your qualifying officer

Pay the qualifying fee (6% of annual salary for partisan offices OR waive it by collecting petition signatures from 1% of registered voters in your district)

Complete all qualifying documents during the official qualifying window

Contact the Polk County Supervisor of Elections:

www.polkelections.gov

[email protected]

(863) 534-5888

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Comment below if YOU are interested or want more information!

Polk County deserves bold, compassionate leadership. Could that be you?