Shaniqua Rose wins runoff election to fill suspended Orlando Commissioner Regina Hill's seat
Shaniqua Rose wins District 5 runoff election
Voters in Orlando's District 5 went to the polls on Tuesday for a special runoff election to fill the seat formerly held by suspended Orlando City Commissioner Regina Hill. Shaniqua "Shan" Rose and Travaris McCurdy advanced from a field of seven candidates who were running for her seat in an April election. Rose captured 54% of the vote to defeat McCurdy.
ORLANDO, Fla. - Shaniqua "Shan" Rose has been elected to fill the District 5 City Commission seat in Orlando following a run-off election on Tuesday.
Rose and Travaris McCurdy were the top two candidates out of seven in the special election in April. Rose captured 54% of the vote on Tuesday to defeat McCurdy.
Rose will serve as interim commissioner after Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended former Commissioner Regina Hill earlier this year due to Hill’s arrest and charges of exploiting a 96-year-old woman.
Rose expressed gratitude for the support from District 5 voters.
"I'm really grateful that the voters in District 5 decided to give me a chance. And they're ready for change," Rose said. She aims to rebuild trust within the community, stating, "I'm going to lead with integrity, and I'm going to lead alongside this district."
Despite not winning, McCurdy acknowledged the integrity of his campaign, saying, "We don't have anything to hold our heads down about tonight because we ran a race of integrity."
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Approximately 1,880 people voted in the election, with 191 early votes, over 1,100 mail-in ballots, and 576 votes cast on Tuesday at the polls.
Hill, speaking at McCurdy's watch party, expressed faith in the judicial system and a commitment to stabilizing District 5.
"Hopefully, some healing can take place, and we can continue to move the city, especially District 5, forward," Hill said.
Long-time District 5 resident Jonathan Blount voiced optimism following the election results.
"I am hopeful because I can see a new day dawning in District 5," Blount said.
Rose will serve District 5 until either the criminal case against Hill is resolved or the current term ends.