Destin Mayor Mel Ponder Runs for Matt Gaetz's Florida House Seat

With Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Shalimar, running for the Florida Senate in 2016, Destin Mayor Mel Ponder launched a bid to replace him on Monday. 

“It is with great humility and a strong sense of service that I ask the voters of Okaloosa County to allow me the privilege and honor to serve as their next state representative,” Ponder said. “As a strong conservative, I will champion our shared ideals of limited government, lower taxes, economic opportunity for all and supporting traditional family values so that we can continue to build a strong community and see Okaloosa County thrive.”

Ponder joins what is shaping up to be a competitive Republican primary. Also running is Okaloosa County Commissioner Wayne Harris who led the Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce and businessman and veteran Armand Izzo.