A third candidate has joined the race in Jacksonville City Council at-large Group 4 to replace term-limited Matt Carlucci.
“After thoughtful discussions and with the support of my family, I am excited to officially announce my candidacy,” Matt McCullough said in a statement announcing his bid.
McCullough, a former Navy pilot who flew during the global war on terror in Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom and Active Endeavor, and 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.
He currently is North Florida’s Navy Emergency Preparedness Liaison Officer, and believes that his military background is a unique value-add as he enters politics.
“As a veteran, I know what leadership and delivering results looks like. Jacksonville deserves a city government that works to put our residents first, keeps our neighborhoods safe, and invests responsibly in our future,” McCullough said. “I’ve had the honor of wearing our nation’s uniform and lead under pressure. I am ready to bring that leadership to City Hall on day one and continue my service on the Jacksonville City Council.”
Carlucci has yet to endorse in this race between three Republicans, in which a real front-runner has yet to emerge.
April Ethridge, an Army vet with an MBA, has raised just $1,550 after being in the race for the better part of 2025.
Andrew McCann, who made his career in medical services before he “made the pivotal decision to step away from corporate life to focus on his family, personal growth, and the betterment of Jacksonville,” raised and self-funded $13,100 since entering the race at the end of October.
Qualifying runs from noon on Jan. 11, 2027, to noon on Jan. 15, 2027. The First Election is March 9, 2027, while the General Election, which sees the top two finishers square off regardless of party label unless someone gets a majority in March, is May 18.
