Stephanie Murphy surges in fundraising in crowded field for Orange County Mayor

Former U.S. Rep. Stephanie Murphy has raised the most money so far in the high-profile race for Orange County Mayor.

Incumbent Mayor Jerry Demings is term-limited and running for Governor, which has led to a crowded field seeking to replace him.

In the first quarter of 2026, Murphy raised $204,000 total through her campaign account and her political committee, Forging Florida’s Future. Since launching her campaign, she has raised more than $1 million and currently has a war chest of $707,000, which her campaign said was more than double of any other candidate.

“I think that this community is really looking for leadership that has a vision for where we’re going, and our message has really resonated with voters all across the county,” Murphy said in an interview Wednesday as she focuses on her priorities on tackling affordable housing and investing in public safety and infrastructure.

“I’m really proud of the support that we’ve gotten.”

Murphy’s donors included businessman Craig Mateer, who serves on several local and statewide boards, and Dr. Phillips Charities CEO Kenneth Robinson. Her biggest donations were $25,000 apiece from a Winter Park general contractor firm and the Center Aisle PAC from Washington, D.C.

Orange County Commissioner Mayra Uribe and Orange County Clerk of Courts Tiffany Moore Russell are also seeking the Mayor’s job.

For the quarter, Uribe raised about $129,500 via her campaign account and her political committee Action For Florida. Uribe’s donors included real estate developer Craig Ustler.

“I’m born and raised in this county,” Uribe said. “I want to make this town a town that businesses want to come here, companies want to prosper here, and our talent can stay here.”

Uribe, who was elected onto the Orange County Commission in 2018, said she is planning to resign to run for County Mayor.

“I’m leaving my County Commission seat for this. This is how committed I am,” she said.

Russell, who did not return a message for comment, raised $53,000 for the quarter.

Also in the race is Christopher Messina, who has raised about $7,000 in the first quarter. Safraaz Alli and Brandy Griffin are also running. Alli reported raising $0 for the quarter. Griffin filed to run on April 3, after Q1 ended, and will file her first fundraising report in July.

The qualifying period ends in June.