Politics
Reggie Gaffney launches political comeback bid, enters HD 13 race to succeed Angie Nixon
He promises to work with Republicans to accomplish his goals.
With state Rep. Angie Nixon exploring a run for U.S. Senate, a familiar face is resurfacing as a candidate in 2026.
Former Jacksonville City Councilman Reggie Gaffney Sr. is in the House District 13 Democratic Primary.
Gaffney served most of two terms, leaving the Council for what was an unsuccessful run against Tracie Davis for the Florida Senate.
But with political newcomer Shemiah Rutledge as his only competition, Gaffney may have the inside track for a trip to Tallahassee. If Gaffney wins the Primary, he likely wins the seat, given the Democratic registration edge in the Duval County district.
Gaffney promises to bring the “same energy” to Tallahassee that he did to City Hall, vowing to “build relationships” and “work across the aisle” for economic development, job creation, mental health and education.
He laments that in Washington and state government, people don’t work together across party lines.
“From Day 1, I’ll know the Governor’s name, the key members in the House. I’ll make a difference,” he told Florida Politics.
He also promises to make appropriations a priority for the district, which includes much of Jacksonville’s Urban Core.
A proven fundraiser, Gaffney’s political committee raised more than half a million dollars in 2022, along with more than $150,000 in hard money.
We reached out to Nixon for comment, but she didn’t immediately respond.
