By Mercedes Price-Harry | Lee GOP Chair
As Chair of the Lee County Republican Party, I am reaching out to everyone, especially conservative minority voters, independents, and women who may not always participate in elections or who have not traditionally supported Republican candidates.
With important elections just months away, including local races that directly shape our daily lives here in Lee County, I invite you to take part in the August 18 primary election. Republican voters will select from a field of candidates who share our commitment to faith, freedom, family, and constitutional principles, and who will go on to represent our party in the November 3 general election. While political parties may differ on many issues, our shared American values provide common ground that transcends partisan labels.
Local elections matter because they determine what happens closest to home. School board members influence the quality and direction of our children’s education. County commissioners make decisions about taxes, roads, public safety, growth, and infrastructure. These choices affect your family’s quality of life, your property values, and the future of our community far more directly than many debates taking place in Washington, D.C. When strong leaders serve at the local level, our communities prosper.
Our own congressional representative’s story demonstrates how local involvement can lead to broader public service. Beginning as a grassroots activist during the rise of the Tea Party movement, his passion for education led him to serve in the Florida Legislature before representing our region in Congress and now becoming a candidate for the highest office in the state. His journey reflects a Republican Party that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds who are committed to serving their communities and advancing conservative principles.
Many Americans, regardless of race or ethnicity, share a deep commitment to faith, family, and the opportunity to build a better future for their children. These values unite people across communities and backgrounds. Republicans believe these institutions deserve respect, protection, and support because they form the foundation of strong families and strong communities.
Freedom remains one of America’s most cherished ideals. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted significant differences in governing philosophies across the country. Many Republicans point to states such as Florida as examples of leadership that prioritized individual liberty, economic activity, and parental choice while navigating unprecedented challenges. It was not the Democrat Party that helped preserve jobs, keep small businesses operating, and protect personal freedoms.
Republicans also emphasize policies they believe strengthen public safety and protect families. This includes securing the nation’s borders, supporting law enforcement, and promoting safe communities. Advocates of these positions argue that effective government should create an environment where families can thrive and pursue opportunity.
If you value freedom, faith, family, safety, and opportunity, I encourage you to register to vote as a Republican before July 20 so your voice can be heard in the August 18 primary election. You do not need to agree with Republicans on every issue to participate in the process. What matters most is being informed, engaged, and involved in the decisions that affect your community.
Lee County and Florida are stronger when more citizens participate in our democracy, especially those who may have felt overlooked or underrepresented. Together, we can continue working to build a community that offers opportunity and prosperity for every family.
Help keep Lee County red by registering as a Republican before July 20. Learn more about Republican candidates by visiting www.LeeGOP.org, and be sure to vote on August 18. In heavily Republican Lee County, many local races are effectively decided during the primary election, making participation especially important.
When you vote Republican,
you vote for FREEDOM.
