The race to succeed term-limited moderate Republican Matt Carlucci on the Jacksonville City Council is beginning to take shape.
An incumbent Democrat and a political newcomer are running neck-and-neck in the fundraising race in at-large Group 4.
Jimmy Peluso, who currently represents District 7 in Jacksonville’s Urban Core and some Westside neighborhoods, raised more than $87,000 in his first fundraising report of the 2027 cycle.
“In just three short weeks, we’ve reached out to stakeholders and leaders across our community, and their choice is clear: they’re ready for strong, effective leadership that delivers results for Jacksonville. The incredible early support we’ve received is a powerful testament to that momentum. And we’re just getting started,” said the Navy veteran and lobbyist for the VyStar Credit Union.
Tampa Bay Rays owner Patrick Zalupski, the Sleiman Group, lawyer Wayne Hogan, and the Friends of Carlos Guillermo Smith political committee were among the 135 donors this cycle.
Close behind with $86,000 raised is Matt McCullough, a former Navy pilot who flew during the global war on terror in Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom and Active Endeavor. McCullough has received two Air Medals, Navy Commendation Medals, a Meritorious Service Medal, and recognition as both Combat Aircrew of the Year and Pilot of the Year.
Among his donors: a political committee associated with Rep. Dean Black; current Councilmen Joe Carlucci, Matt Carlucci and Terrance Freeman; a political committee associated with Councilman Rory Diamond; former Rep. Jay Fant; and former City Councilmen Greg Anderson and Bill Gulliford.
Peluso is the only Democrat in the field, suggesting he should have few issues emerging from next March’s First Election. That contest will see the top two finishers emerge in the General Election in May unless someone gets more than half the vote.
Two other Republicans are in the race. Andrew McCann raised $13,100 as of the end of last year. Joseph Day has yet to report any fundraising.
