By Jacob Engels
Well, Sean Ashby has wasted no time kicking of his nascent campaign for the Orange County Commission. Last Sunday, he appeared on FOX35 with Keith Landry and opposite former State Representative Scott Plakon to discuss the across the board pay raises for teachers. Ashby held his ground well against Plakon, and kept very focused throughout the interview.
SIDE NOTE – The Scott Plakon I saw during the interview was a much more appealing, upbeat, and energized Scott Plakon. Perhaps humbled by his 2012 loss, Plakon is definitely already doing far more for his brand in the early stages of a potential comeback bid than he did last cycle.
Now back to Ashby. Following his appearance with Keith Landry on FOX35, he sent out his first fundraising email of the campaign and he made it pretty clear that he is willing to take this fight to embattled Commissioner Jennifer Thompson. He cited that fact that Thompson is currently the subject of a criminal investigation by the State Attorney’s office and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, as well as facing a separate civil lawsuit.
He also hit Thompson for granting special favors to “special interests” and stated he will need a strong grassroots campaign bolstered by generous donations to achieve victory in 2014. But it wasn’t all about Thompson. Ashby also referenced his want to effect postitive change for Orange County residents and give the power back to the people, not the powerful.
While this race is still in the early stages, one thing is certain….Central Floridians can expect a barn burner out of the Orange County Commission District 4 race, and I think it will be one of the most watched political contests in the area.
PS- Any candidates that wish to submit articles or campaign updates can do so by emailing info@eastorlandopost.com or by calling me directly at 231-360-1411.
Jacob Engels, is the Founder of East Orlando Post. Along with the Post, he owns several other businesses and is currently enrolled at Valencia College. Jacob has lived in Avalon Park since it’s founding and enjoys playing with his black Labradoodle Jasper, listening to indie rock, and seeking out new business ventures. He can be reached at info@eastorlandopost.com
