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Voters in Florida House District 51 will choose a new representative in a special election on Tuesday, March 24, following the resignation of Rep. Josie Tomkow. District 51 includes Auburndale, Haines City, Davenport, Lake Alfred, Polk City, Four Corners, and surrounding northern Polk County communities.
Republican Hilary Holley and Democrat Edwin Pérez are on the ballot.
Tuesday Voters: Click here to find your precinct. Polls will be open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. March 24.
Hilary Holley
Hilary Holley is a Republican candidate for Florida House District 51. She works with the Florida FFA Foundation, where she supports agricultural education and student leadership programs across the state. She said she decided to run to “ensure Florida remains a place where families can afford to live, businesses can grow, and freedom is protected.”
Holley said one of the main issues facing the district is rapid growth in Polk County, which she said is “driving up housing costs and straining our infrastructure.” She added that she would work toward “a more affordable Florida” by addressing those challenges while serving in the state legislature.
In discussing her priorities, Holley also pointed to issues including the state’s insurance and affordability challenges, support for small businesses, and education. She said she aims to “empower parents and teachers,” while promoting economic opportunities and supporting law enforcement and emergency response teams.
When asked what sets her apart, Holley said she aims to “put Florida First and make decisions that serve the best interests of Polk County,” adding that her approach is guided by conservative values and her personal faith.
As of March 19, Holley had reported $137,181 from 184 contributions, up from $71,056 from 116 contributions reported as of February 18.
Edwin Pérez
Edwin Pérez is a Democratic candidate for Florida House District 51 and previously ran for Haines City commissioner. He said he decided to enter the race after being encouraged by members of his party to run following changes in the race.
Pérez said one of the main concerns he hears from residents is affordability, pointing to rising costs of housing, insurance, food, and healthcare. He described affordability as a “domino effect” impacting multiple areas, including schools, medical services, and infrastructure. He said these issues need to be addressed at the state level.
When asked what sets him apart, Pérez said he does not view himself as a career politician. He sees himself as an “activist” focused on representing residents in District 51. He said he is “not looking for a new career” and is running to “help the community” and “represent the people who are hurting right now.”
Pérez also highlighted his community involvement, including serving as vice chair of the Hispanic Democratic Caucus of Polk County, chair for District 4 of the Puerto Rican Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and a board member for Parkview Medical Center, which provides services to uninsured patients. He said his personal experiences, including surviving stage 4 lymphoma and other health challenges, have shaped his motivation to serve the community.
As of March 19, Pérez had raised $10,262.26 from 179 contributions, including a $2,000 loan from himself. That number is up from $7,656.63 from 108 contributions reported as of February 18.
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