Chamber and Advocates Bring State Representative Candidates To Beach Forum

The Pensacola Beach Chamber and Pensacola Beach Advocates partnered on August 3 to bring local, state and federal candidates to the Beach Church for a candidates’ forum. Here are the questions and answers (consolidated for brevity) from the State Representative District 2 Candidates. Republicans will be on the Primary Ballot, with the winner facing the Democrat on the November general election ballot.

Republicans: Jon Fay and Trei McMullen; and Democrat: Johnny Austin Thompson

Q: Why are you running for office, and what are your goals?

A: Fay: I’m a retired naval flight officer (24 years) and now a business leader and owner in Gulf Breeze. I’m running because I want Pensacola to be a better place for my three kids and for families to call home. I don’t have all the answers, but I have a track record of working with people and serving with integrity.

A: McMullen: My daughter called about an active shooter at her campus and my son faced a bomb threat. I won’t let this be our generation’s norm. I’m a combat veteran, retired from Special Forces, with academic credentials up to a doctorate in global security. I serve people over special interests.

A: Thompson: I’m a lifelong Panhandle resident, not a “California Democrat.” I seek to fix healthcare, lower insurance and property costs, and help people thrive here. I’m locally rooted and committed to representing our community.

Q: If a significant majority of Pensacola Beach leaseholders supported changes to the Santa Rosa Island Authority structure or responsibilities, would you consider sponsoring or supporting legislation to implement these changes? Why or why not?

A: McMullen: I’d require a documented straw vote to verify majority support. If verified, I’d support what homeowners want—homeowners should have the loudest voice.

A: Thompson: I’d be open to conversation to ensure proper representation. Pensacola Beach brings important tourism revenue and needs appropriate representation.

A: Fay: It’s complex—federal, state, county and local stakeholders are involved. Generally, if locals want it, I’d support it, but we must analyze second- and third-order effects and work with other stakeholders.

Q: Do you believe the state of Florida has overstepped or overreached with their authority when preempting local law?

A: Thompson: I don’t think so. Incorporation is complex and requires careful judgment; impacts on county revenues and services must be considered.

A: Fay: Local government governs best, but home rule is not absolute. Sometimes state preemption is warranted for the greater good or to avoid burdensome local mandates.

A: McMullen: Yes, but local bills pass through legislative relationships; influence comes from knowing the room and having lawmakers’ support.

Q: What do you see as the most pressing issue to come before the state legislature next session?

A: Fay: Affordability—property taxes, property insurance, and general cost of living are top concerns.

A: McMullen: Data centers will be a big issue, and affordability—finding ways for counties to handle revenue shortfalls if taxes are reduced; attract more insurers.

A: Thompson: Budget allocation and affordability. Use a toolbox of solutions (e.g., weatherizing homes via programs like My Florida Safe Homes) to lower costs.

Q: Since the state regulates short-term rentals as a business, should short-term rentals in residential neighborhoods on Pensacola Beach be charged a percentage of their profits like hotels with commercial leases?

A: McMullen: They should follow similar guidelines—quiet hours, responsible neighbor policies—and violations should be public; enforcement is needed.

A: Thompson: They need proper licensing and regulation; many are not paying appropriate taxes. Localities should handle trash/noise enforcement; state should ensure licensing and safety compliance.

A: Fay: Quality of life matters. There should be tax-collection mechanisms and enforcement for nuisances, but balance with property rights; consider LLC/registration for operators.

Q: Closing remarks

A: Thompson: I love this place, I’m committed, transparent and accountable. I’ll represent people who want change; I’ll be on the ballot November 3.

A: Fay: This race is about service, character, integrity. I care about this area, have a track record, and am ready to work from day one.

A: McMullen: Put people’s interests over special interests. I’ve protected the community in emergencies and elections. Early voting is Aug. 8-15; and primary voting is August 18; I humbly ask for your vote.