Lina Teixeira won’t seek re-election, Sam Wilson expected to file to replace her

Clearwater City Council member Lina Teixeira will not seek a second term in office, she announced on Facebook, citing a desire to “focus on my family at this challenging time.” She did not elaborate on what she meant by “challenging time.”

“I’m deeply grateful for the trust you placed in me and proud of the work we accomplished together. Thank you to my colleagues, city staff, and this incredible community for the support and kindness you’ve shown me,” she wrote

First elected in 2022, the artist and gallery owner defeated Aaron Smith-Levin after a race filled with drama. Smith-Levin is a former Church of Scientology member who defected and became a vocal critic, but also found himself with some drunken run-ins with the law along the way, which Teixeira used as campaign fodder against him.

After her victory, she replaced former Clearwater City Council member Hoyt Hamilton on the dais.

Teixeira is the only non-Republican currently serving on Clearwater City Council. She is a registered independent.

But that could change, with political circles already whispering about a potential front-runner to replace her. Sam Wilson, who currently serves as the District Director for Republican U.S. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, said he’s seriously considering a bid. He has worked with Luna in various roles since mid-2022, first as a scheduler and later as a District Field and Legislative Coordinator. He was promoted to District Director in November 2024.

Prior to his work with Luna, Wilson served as an intern for several federal officials, including for U.S. Reps. Lauren Boebert of Colorado and Gus Bilirakis in Florida. Prior to that, he interned with then-U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio. He also previously served as an intern research liaison with the group Citizens Defending Freedom, according to his Linkedin bio.

Sources tell Florida Politics Wilson will likely be the front-runner if he runs.

In a Facebook post Friday, Wilson hinted at a possible announcement next month.

“The momentum is building, and February is shaping up to be an incredibly busy month ahead with key developments on the horizon. Stay tuned for more updates, exciting things are coming,” he wrote, adding an American flag emoji.

In a conversation with Florida Politics, Wilson, a member of Generation Z, said he has received encouragement from Clearwater residents eager for a fresh perspective.

“My generation wants to be engaged,” he said, adding that if he runs and is elected, he would utilize social media to ensure residents are informed of what’s going on in their city.

“I feel like a lot of times issues come up in our City Council, whether it be dealing with the Church of Scientology or Duke Energy; you just really don’t know where your Council members stand unless there is a work session or a City Council meeting,” he continued, adding that residents with whom he has spoken to “often feel they’re not in the loop.”

His top priorities, should he run, would be addressing affordability issues in the city and ensuring transparency in city business.

In his Facebook post, Wilson said he has been “approached by many residents in Clearwater to run for local office.”

“I’ve listened to your concerns and ideas. Now, more than ever, our city Council needs strong leadership laser-focused on making Clearwater more affordable, by cutting property taxes to ease the burden on homeowners and families, while preserving the unique charm, character, and coastal vibe that makes our community special,” he wrote.

Speaking with Florida Politics, he added that he would work to ensure continued momentum on revitalizing downtown Clearwater.

If he runs, and is elected, Wilson has the opportunity to turn City Council entirely red. Teixeira represents Seat 5 on the Council. Seat 4 is also up for election this year. Incumbent David Allbritton is also not seeking re-election.

Candidates cannot officially file for the 2026 race until Feb. 19.