Here’s what six people running for Florida Governor have to say about clean water. The other candidates did not respond.

We got a variety of answers about WFNF, desalination, potable reuse, WMDs, datacenters, and RTCW. For what these candidates wrote about those and other issues, see below.

Florida Governor Candidates, Clean Water Questionnaire, WFNF, Datacenters, WMDs, etc. –WWALS 2026-08-17

WWALS Watershed Coalition (WWALS) is conducting a Political Candidate Clean Water Questionnaire: #WWALSCleanWaterQuestionnaire

We already reported responses from statehouse District 9 and District 10, and also U.S. Congress Florida District 2.

For much more about Water First North Florida (WFNF), see:

https://wwals.net/issues/wfnf

If you are a candidate for state or national office in Florida this year, in the Suwannee River Basin, we sent you a questionnaire. If you didn’t get it, please let us know.

https://wwals.net/donations/contact/

Primary Election Day is tomorrow, Tuesday, August 18.

Our source for who is running is the Florida Department of State Candidate Tracking System.

https://dos.elections.myflorida.com/candidates/Index.asp

As an IRS 501(c)(3) educational nonprofit, WWALS cannot support or oppose any specific candidate for office. But we can ask all candidates in a race what they think, and publish the results.

WWALS Political Candidate Clean Water Questionnaire

Governor

• Side by Side
• Each Candidate
  • Dean Abrams, NPA
  • Thomas Eloy Fernandez, Democratic
  • MW khan, WRI
  • Daniel Nokovich, Republican
  • David DJ DeJesus, WRI
  • Jim Holcomb, Republican
• The Questions: WWALS Political Candidate Clean Water Questionnaire

The incumbent is not running. NPA is No Party Affiliation and WRI is Write-In.

Governor by question (Side by Side)

1. Do you oppose Water First North Florida (WFNF), the plan to pipe treated wastewater from Jacksonville into the Suwannee River Basin?

   Dean Abrams: I will work to cancel the project

   Thomas Eloy Fernandez: I support an independent scientific review before any project proceeds. Water quality, public health, and ecosystem protection must come first. Any proposal should meet rigorous environmental standards, include public input, and demonstrate that it will not adversely affect the Suwannee River Basin.

   MW khan: I will immediately propose a moratorium on the project, conduct an independent scientific and environmental review with full public transparency, and proceed only if it is proven to protect Florida’s water, environment, and communities. If the project is found to cause significant harm, I will work to cancel it.

   Daniel Nokovich: I will work to cancel the project

   David DJ DeJesus: Yes

   Jim Holcomb: No, I support WFNF

2. Do you support a ban on transfers of water from one river basin to another?

   Dean Abrams: I will work for a legal ban

   Thomas Eloy Fernandez: Water transfers should be evaluated using sound science, regional water needs, and long-term sustainability. I support protecting Florida’s water resources and would require that any inter-basin transfer demonstrate a clear public benefit without causing unacceptable environmental harm.

   MW khan: I support protecting Florida’s water resources. Water transfers between river basins should not occur unless they are proven scientifically to cause no environmental harm, have local public support, and are necessary for public health or emergencies. Otherwise, I will work to prohibit such transfers.

   Daniel Nokovich: Yes

   David DJ DeJesus: Yes

   Jim Holcomb: Water should stay where lands

3. Do you support seawater desalination for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?

   Dean Abrams: I will work for state support for seawater desalination

   Thomas Eloy Fernandez: I support continued research and carefully planned desalination where it is environmentally and economically appropriate. Desalination should complement—not replace—water conservation, aquifer protection, infrastructure improvements, and responsible water management.

   MW khan: Yes, when it is environmentally responsible and cost-effective. I support investing in desalination as part of Florida’s long-term water strategy, together with water conservation, aquifer protection, and reuse of treated water where appropriate.

   Daniel Nokovich: desalination can be very costly. If businesses need more water than is available, I would propose they pay for their own desalination plants.

   David DJ DeJesus: Yes

   Jim Holcomb: If because of fresh water shortages.

4. Do you support potable reuse for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?

   Dean Abrams: I support potable reuse only when treatment includes vapor distillation or equivalent processes that eliminate pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and other persistent contaminants. Floridians deserve proof that recycled water meets that standard before it reaches their tap.

   Thomas Eloy Fernandez: I support potable reuse where it meets rigorous public health, environmental, and engineering standards. Potable reuse should complement conservation, aquifer protection, and infrastructure improvements as part of a diversified long-term water strategy.

   MW khan: I support safe potable reuse when it meets the highest scientific standards, includes full public transparency, and protects Florida’s health and environment. It should be used as one part of a broader water strategy that includes conservation, protecting aquifers, and responsible management of Florida’s water resources.

   Daniel Nokovich: I’ve been a part of reuse before and the filtration is never adequate for human consumption. Non restaurant businesses should have access to potable reused water and save on the aquafer. Stop AI centers dead in their tracks and propose moratoriums on invasive species like DATA centers.

   David DJ DeJesus: No

   Jim Holcomb: No

5. Do you support efforts to recharge the Floridan Aquifer, springs, and rivers that do not require massive engineering?

   Dean Abrams: I will work to clear legal hurdles for safe, clean forestry wetland well recharge

   Thomas Eloy Fernandez: Yes

   MW khan: Yes

   Daniel Nokovich: Other

   David DJ DeJesus: I support forestry wetland well recharge

   Jim Holcomb: Other

6. Do you support a water budget for north Florida, requiring water withdrawal permits to be limited or reduced when exceeded?

   Dean Abrams: I will work for state support for a water budget.

   Thomas Eloy Fernandez: I support science-based water management that protects Florida’s long-term water supply. Water withdrawal decisions should be based on sustainable yield, regional conditions, and sound scientific data while balancing environmental protection, agriculture, economic development, and community needs.

   MW khan: I will work to make Water Management Districts more accountable to the people of Florida through greater transparency, public oversight, and science-based decision-making. Board members should be qualified, ethical, and committed to protecting Florida’s water resources. I support reforms that ensure balanced representation, including scientific and environmental expertise, while giving citizens a stronger voice in decisions that affect their communities.

   Daniel Nokovich: Residents should be able to obtain their own wells, and we can figure out a way for companies to desalinate, use condensation machines to capture water and so on. Limiting water to farmers and residents is overreach.

   David DJ DeJesus: I will work for state support for a water budget.

   Jim Holcomb: I need information, generally less government involvement

7. What will you do to reform the Water Management Districts (WMDs)?

   Dean Abrams: All of the above

   Thomas Eloy Fernandez: I will appoint qualified, ethical board members with expertise in science, water management, agriculture, engineering, conservation, and community needs while promoting transparency, accountability, and evidence-based decision-making.

   MW khan: : I will reform Water Management Districts by requiring greater transparency, public accountability, and science-based decision-making. Board members should be qualified, ethical, and include appropriate scientific and environmental expertise while remaining accountable to the citizens they serve.

   Daniel Nokovich: I will incorporate an auditory board to report to the Executive legislative branch and the 1st branch of government( We the People)

   David DJ DeJesus: I will work to require half of each WMD’s board to be from scientific or environmental backgrounds.

   Jim Holcomb: I ? Water Management exceeding US Constitution 4 th Amendment property rights.

8. Will you work to require hyper-scale datacenters

   Dean Abrams: I will work for a ban on hyper-scale datacenters

   Thomas Eloy Fernandez: I support requiring hyper-scale data centers to protect Florida’s water resources through efficient cooling technologies, responsible wastewater management, energy efficiency, and compliance with rigorous environmental standards.

   MW khan: I support responsible technology growth, but hyper-scale datacenters must meet strict environmental standards. I will require closed-loop cooling where feasible, prohibit harmful wastewater discharge into Florida’s waterways and groundwater, and encourage renewable energy sources to reduce pressure on our water resources. Economic development must be balanced with protecting Florida’s future.

   Daniel Nokovich: AI Data centers are the brains behind mass surveillance, FLOCK cameras, digital currency control and 15 minute cities that include social point system being implemented in China

   David DJ DeJesus: Build their own renewable power source & water source( desalination plants). Share excess power & water produced. Not to discharge untreated waste water into waterways and groundwater.

   Jim Holcomb: The above sounds unconstitutional

9. Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs)

   Dean Abrams: Both

   Thomas Eloy Fernandez: I will work to require and fund the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to enforce existing contamination laws

   MW khan: I will strengthen Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs) by requiring measurable results, transparent reporting, and real accountability for reducing nitrates and other contaminants. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection must have the authority and resources needed to enforce existing environmental protections and hold polluters accountable.

   Daniel Nokovich: Funding another round of departments does not constitute a shrewd use of money pulled from the pockets of everyday citizens. Sometimes instead of reinventing the wheel, we need to find out which spokes are missing on the wheel that we already have in possession. Find the root of the problem and quit treating the fruit. In other words, treat the cause, not the effect.

   David DJ DeJesus: I will work to require and fund the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to enforce existing contamination laws

   Jim Holcomb: I have lived on Lake Apopka the last 24 years and only see improvement by raising water level with dam. Water repair seems non -existing.

10. What is your position on the rampant growth of population in Florida and its effect on our natural resources?

    Dean Abrams: Florida has experienced massive destruction of it’s natural environment in the last few decades. It’s natural environment must be preserved- forest, farms, wetlands, etc. Growth must be tied to infrastructure and resource capacity. No new development should be permitted without verified water supply, wastewater treatment, and justification for environmental destruction. Aquifer withdrawals must be capped at sustainable yield.

    Thomas Eloy Fernandez: Florida’s continued growth brings tremendous opportunities, but it also places increasing demands on our water resources, infrastructure, transportation systems, housing, and natural environment. As Governor, I will support responsible growth that is guided by sound planning, scientific data, and sustainable resource management. Growth should protect our springs, rivers, wetlands, and aquifer while preserving agriculture, private property rights, and Florida’s unique natural heritage. Our goal should be to leave Florida better than we found it for future generations.

    MW khan: Florida’s growth must be managed responsibly. I welcome families, businesses, and innovation, but growth cannot come at the expense of our water, environment, infrastructure, and quality of life. We need responsible planning, protection of natural resources, affordable housing, improved infrastructure, and sustainable development that ensures Florida remains a great place to live for future generations.

    Daniel Nokovich: I think growth should be healthy and beneficial. When it becomes a burden because there is a lack of structure and vision to support such expansion, then there needs to be a repose and reflection in order to conscript a viable and bullet proof solution. Nothing in the universe gets free expansion without fore thought except for here on earth where men and women plunge on ahead without considering the dangers or plumbing the depths. It’s like the old saying; never jump into a water whole without canvassing the bottom for dangerous debris.

    David DJ DeJesus: Florida needs to control external population growth and that is why as the Governor I will impose income tax on every one moving to Florida for the first five years of residency.

    Jim Holcomb: One home per 5 acres generally.

11. What solutions do you offer to protect our springs from over-pumping and pollution from various sources?

    Dean Abrams: Cap withdrawals at sustainable levels. End sweetheart commercial extraction deals. Require all commercial operations to treat their own wastewater or connect to permitted municipal systems. Fund monitoring and enforcement through FDEP

    Thomas Eloy Fernandez: Florida’s springs are among our state’s greatest natural resources and deserve long-term protection. I support science-based water management, responsible permitting, investments in wastewater and stormwater infrastructure, stronger enforcement of existing pollution laws, agricultural best management practices that produce measurable results, and conservation efforts that reduce unnecessary groundwater withdrawals. Protecting our springs requires cooperation among state agencies, local governments, agriculture, businesses, and communities while ensuring sustainable water supplies for future generations.

    MW khan:

    Daniel Nokovich: If we implement a pure water act, which would include a pollution audit for every person, stop spraying our waters with herbicides and start harvesting the weeds instead. Criminalize and enforce measures to hold companies responsible for neglecting their duties to safe guard the basic care of the environment. Not to be mistaken for total mismanagement of underbrush and natural waterways.

    David DJ DeJesus: Strictly enforce pollution laws and penalties including from vehicle and factory exhausts. Fund desalination plants to ensure there is adequate water supplies in case of prolonged droughts as well as clean the ocean water of pollutants. Increased monitoring from the State & citizens for polluters.

    Jim Holcomb: Rain water should not leave property boundaries.

12. Do you support a Right to Clean Water in the Florida Constitution Article I?

    Dean Abrams: Yes – I support a right to clean water, air, and soil

    Thomas Eloy Fernandez: I support Floridians having access to clean water and would carefully review any proposed constitutional amendment to ensure it protects our natural resources while providing clear, workable standards and respecting existing constitutional rights.

    MW khan: I will protect Florida’s springs through responsible water management, stronger accountability, and science-based solutions. We must prevent over-pumping by setting sustainable withdrawal limits, improve enforcement against pollution, reduce harmful runoff, protect natural recharge areas, and invest in conservation and restoration efforts. Florida’s springs are a treasure, and protecting them requires transparency, accountability, and action—not just promises.

    Daniel Nokovich: As stated before, I support a Pure water act(Right to Clean Water) Healthy food, Clean air(no chemical trails) and Soil revitalization by banning dangerous chemicals and land sabbaths.

    David DJ DeJesus: Clean water, air and soil

    Jim Holcomb: I believe the Governor should comply with Article 4 Section 1 and judges comply with the Code of Judicial Conduct and eliminate the Doctrine of Judicial Immunity which protects judges from damages for Judicial Malpractice.

13. Do you support repealing HB 1205 of 2025, which greatly complicates citizens petitions for amendments to the state constitution?

    Dean Abrams: Yes

    Thomas Eloy Fernandez: I support Floridians having access to clean water and would carefully review any proposed constitutional amendment to ensure it protects our natural resources while providing clear, workable standards and respecting existing constitutional rights.

    MW khan: Yes

    Daniel Nokovich: I will have to review the full HB in order to ascertain an educated response.

    David DJ DeJesus: Yes

    Jim Holcomb: Probably

14. Concurrent with safe sleep awareness efforts to reduce infant mortality via SIDS, will you ensure rural health departments have resources to facilitate and communities have access to drinking water testing and education? If not, how else will you address the maternal and prenatal rural drinking water crisis?

    Dean Abrams: Yes. Rural communities deserve the same access to clean drinking water as urban areas. I will ensure rural health departments have the resources to test drinking water and educate families, and I will push for state funding to close the gap in rural water infrastructure.

    Thomas Eloy Fernandez: Yes. Every Florida family deserves access to safe drinking water regardless of where they live. As Governor, I will support partnerships among the Florida Department of Health, rural health departments, local governments, and water utilities to expand water testing, public education, infrastructure improvements, and early intervention programs. Protecting maternal and infant health begins with clean drinking water, strong public health systems, and proactive investments that reduce environmental health risks.

    MW khan: Yes. I will ensure rural health departments have the resources needed to provide safe drinking water testing, education, and support for families, especially expecting mothers and infants. Protecting public health requires early action, transparency, and accountability. I will work to identify contamination risks, expand access to testing, and ensure communities have the information and resources needed to protect maternal and infant health.

    Daniel Nokovich: SIDS affects close to .05 in 1000 babies. Where as Abortion affects 216 per 1000 babies. If we’re really concerned for the well being of babies, we need to eliminate Abortion altogether.

    David DJ DeJesus: Yes.

    Jim Holcomb: I was an Orlando Firefighter 1974 – 2004. Child life is a priority.

15. How will rural communities and small cities adapt to potential changes in tax structures? What strategies do you propose they implement? What about funding for public parks, 4H/youth programs, and agricultural extension?

    Dean Abrams: Rural communities should not bear disproportionate costs from state tax policy changes. I support maintaining state funding for public parks, 4H and youth programs, and agricultural extension services. These are infrastructure, not luxuries.

    Thomas Eloy Fernandez: Florida’s rural communities are essential to our state’s economy, agriculture, and natural heritage. Any changes to state or local tax policy should avoid placing disproportionate burdens on small communities. I support sustainable funding for public parks, 4-H and youth development programs, agricultural extension services, and infrastructure that strengthens local economies. I also support expanding grant opportunities, public-private partnerships, and responsible fiscal management to help rural communities remain economically competitive while preserving their unique character.

    MW khan: Rural communities and small cities must not be left behind during any changes to tax structures. I will support responsible financial planning, transparency in government spending, and strategies that strengthen local economies without placing unfair burdens on residents. My administration will prioritize keeping essential services strong, including public parks, 4-H and youth programs, agricultural extension services, and opportunities for future generations. We should invest in rural entrepreneurship, agriculture, technology, and workforce development while ensuring taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and accountably. Florida’s rural communities are not an afterthought they are an important part of our state’s identity and future.

    Daniel Nokovich: I am for eliminating all taxes and returning control back to the people of Florida. Taking peoples money and then granting them limited access to what their hard earned money purchased is communism, a system that I oppose with every Patriotic drop of blood in my veins.

    David DJ DeJesus: I will conduct community meetings & caucuses to determine the real problems & craft solutions acceptable to these communities. Definitely increase funding for public parks, youth programs, agricultural extensions and environmental clean ups of public places such as roads & restrooms.I will enact strict standards to keep Florida clean & beautiful.

    Jim Holcomb: Most programs for children do well without government.

16. Will you ensure free speech and first amendment rights are upheld by opposing agricultural muzzle clauses?

    Dean Abrams: Yes

    Thomas Eloy Fernandez: Yes

    MW khan: Yes

    Daniel Nokovich: Yes

    David DJ DeJesus: Yes

    Jim Holcomb: Yes

17. If you aren’t monitoring, you aren’t managing. How can water quality and supply monitoring efforts be improved and better coordinated?

    Dean Abrams: Centralize reporting, increase monitoring frequency, deploy real-time sensors at key points, and make all data publicly accessible. If you aren’t monitoring, you aren’t managing.

    Thomas Eloy Fernandez: Effective water management begins with accurate, transparent, and timely information. I support expanding coordinated water quality and water supply monitoring among state agencies, water management districts, local governments, universities, and community partners. Monitoring data should be publicly accessible, science-based, and used to guide responsible permitting, infrastructure investments, and conservation efforts while identifying problems before they become costly crises.

    MW khan: Florida must improve water monitoring through better coordination, transparency, and accountability. I will support a statewide system that brings together the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Water Management Districts, local governments, universities, and communities to share real-time data on water quality and supply. We cannot manage what we do not measure. Monitoring should include groundwater levels, springs, rivers, contaminants, and long-term trends, with information available to the public. Better data will allow Florida to prevent problems before they become crises and make science-based decisions that protect our water future.

    Daniel Nokovich: A Pure water auditory board to audit the entire state for poor water quality or criminal levels of chemicals being used to make foggy water disappear but not purify. Hold all distributors of H2O accountable for their public trust.

    David DJ DeJesus: Through better coordination of state government agencies and public oversight.

    Jim Holcomb: Maybe by private monitoring and less government.

18. Will you support the State of Florida water quality testing all rivers?

    Dean Abrams: I will work to require and fund the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to testing all rivers frequently and at closely-spaced sites. testing all rivers frequently and at closely-spaced sites to test all rivers frequently and at closely-spaced sites.

    Thomas Eloy Fernandez: I support science-based water quality monitoring across Florida’s rivers using a risk-based approach that prioritizes vulnerable watersheds while ensuring reliable statewide monitoring, public transparency, and sustainable funding.

    MW khan: I support comprehensive and frequent water quality testing of Florida’s rivers, with closely spaced monitoring sites based on scientific need and environmental risk. I will work to ensure the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has the resources, transparency, and accountability needed to protect Florida’s waterways and public health.

    Daniel Nokovich: Again, there is savings that can be implemented without a lot of wasteful spending. Sampling can be accomplished by interns or college students. We don’t need a bigger governmental bureaucracy with limitless tax funded liabilities. Consign these operations to existing Florida higher education and vocational learning entities already equipped with scientific labs and scientists.

    David DJ DeJesus: I will work to require and fund the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to testing all rivers frequently and at closely-spaced sites. testing all rivers frequently and at closely-spaced sites to test all rivers frequently and at closely-spaced sites.

    Jim Holcomb: Government may prevent quality monitoring

19. Would you support a pesticide liability shield?

    Dean Abrams: No

    Thomas Eloy Fernandez: No

    MW khan: No

    Daniel Nokovich: No

    David DJ DeJesus: No

    Jim Holcomb:

20. What are your primary concerns regarding water?

    Dean Abrams: Aquifer depletion from commercial overuse, nutrient pollution driving algae blooms in Lake Okeechobee and coastal waters, sweetheart extraction deals for bottling companies, and the absence of enforceable limits on industrial and agricultural discharge.

    Thomas Eloy Fernandez: Florida’s long-term water security depends on protecting both water quality and water supply. My primary concerns are protecting our aquifer and springs, reducing pollution from multiple sources, investing in aging water and wastewater infrastructure, ensuring sustainable groundwater withdrawals, strengthening science-based water management, and preparing for continued population growth. Every Floridian deserves access to clean, safe, and affordable water while preserving our natural resources for future generations.

    MW khan: My primary concerns regarding water are protecting Florida’s drinking water supply, preventing pollution, reducing over-pumping of our aquifers, and preserving our springs, rivers, and natural ecosystems. Florida’s rapid growth requires responsible water management, better monitoring, transparency, and accountability. We must protect our water resources today so future generations can afford and access clean water tomorrow.

    Daniel Nokovich: Citizens pure water delivery and AI centers hogging precious water resources.

    David DJ DeJesus: Adequacy & safety for growing population & businesses in the next 10 years.

    Jim Holcomb: Government involvement.

21. Do you support the state preemptions of local government via restrictions of municipal action, codes, or ordinances?

    Dean Abrams: No

    Thomas Eloy Fernandez: No

    MW khan: No

    Daniel Nokovich: Yes

    David DJ DeJesus: No

    Jim Holcomb: Yes

22. Which state preemptions of local governments do you support, if any?

    Dean Abrams: Preemptions that establish minimum environmental and water quality standards as a floor, not a ceiling. Local governments should retain authority to set stricter protections.

    Thomas Eloy Fernandez: I support statewide standards when there is a clear statewide interest, such as protecting constitutional rights, ensuring uniform public safety standards, or maintaining consistent statewide regulatory frameworks. However, I believe local governments should retain appropriate authority to address local environmental, infrastructure, and community needs when those actions do not conflict with state law or constitutional protections.

    MW khan: I support state standards only when they protect fundamental rights, public safety, environmental protection, or ensure fairness across Florida. However, I oppose unnecessary preemptions that prevent local communities from addressing their own unique challenges. Local governments should have the flexibility to serve their residents while following reasonable statewide protections.

    Daniel Nokovich: Anything that preempts the constitution, be it state or federal. I understand that some laws must be challenged and then changed, but some municipalities would like to ignore all state and federal constitutional mandates, which then puts the entire union in jeopardy of cohesion and unity.

    David DJ DeJesus: One that makes sense and local government overreach.

    Jim Holcomb: Money considerations at all government levels

Governor by candidate

• Dean Abrams, NPA
• Thomas Eloy Fernandez, Democratic
• MW khan, WRI
• Daniel Nokovich, Republican
• David DJ DeJesus, WRI
• Jim Holcomb, Republican

Dean Abrams, NPA

1. Do you oppose Water First North Florida (WFNF), the plan to pipe treated wastewater from Jacksonville into the Suwannee River Basin?

   I will work to cancel the project

2. Do you support a ban on transfers of water from one river basin to another?

   I will work for a legal ban

3. Do you support seawater desalination for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?

   I will work for state support for seawater desalination

4. Do you support potable reuse for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?

   I support potable reuse only when treatment includes vapor distillation or equivalent processes that eliminate pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and other persistent contaminants. Floridians deserve proof that recycled water meets that standard before it reaches their tap.

5. Do you support efforts to recharge the Floridan Aquifer, springs, and rivers that do not require massive engineering?

   I will work to clear legal hurdles for safe, clean forestry wetland well recharge

6. Do you support a water budget for north Florida, requiring water withdrawal permits to be limited or reduced when exceeded?

   I will work for state support for a water budget.

7. What will you do to reform the Water Management Districts (WMDs)?

   All of the above

8. Will you work to require hyper-scale datacenters

   I will work for a ban on hyper-scale datacenters

9. Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs)

   Both

10. What is your position on the rampant growth of population in Florida and its effect on our natural resources?

    Florida has experienced massive destruction of it’s natural environment in the last few decades. It’s natural environment must be preserved- forest, farms, wetlands, etc. Growth must be tied to infrastructure and resource capacity. No new development should be permitted without verified water supply, wastewater treatment, and justification for environmental destruction. Aquifer withdrawals must be capped at sustainable yield.

11. What solutions do you offer to protect our springs from over-pumping and pollution from various sources?

    Cap withdrawals at sustainable levels. End sweetheart commercial extraction deals. Require all commercial operations to treat their own wastewater or connect to permitted municipal systems. Fund monitoring and enforcement through FDEP

12. Do you support a Right to Clean Water in the Florida Constitution Article I?

    Yes – I support a right to clean water, air, and soil

13. Do you support repealing HB 1205 of 2025, which greatly complicates citizens petitions for amendments to the state constitution?

    Yes

14. Concurrent with safe sleep awareness efforts to reduce infant mortality via SIDS, will you ensure rural health departments have resources to facilitate and communities have access to drinking water testing and education? If not, how else will you address the maternal and prenatal rural drinking water crisis?

    Yes. Rural communities deserve the same access to clean drinking water as urban areas. I will ensure rural health departments have the resources to test drinking water and educate families, and I will push for state funding to close the gap in rural water infrastructure.

15. How will rural communities and small cities adapt to potential changes in tax structures? What strategies do you propose they implement? What about funding for public parks, 4H/youth programs, and agricultural extension?

    Rural communities should not bear disproportionate costs from state tax policy changes. I support maintaining state funding for public parks, 4H and youth programs, and agricultural extension services. These are infrastructure, not luxuries.

16. Will you ensure free speech and first amendment rights are upheld by opposing agricultural muzzle clauses?

    Yes

17. If you aren’t monitoring, you aren’t managing. How can water quality and supply monitoring efforts be improved and better coordinated?

    Centralize reporting, increase monitoring frequency, deploy real-time sensors at key points, and make all data publicly accessible. If you aren’t monitoring, you aren’t managing.

18. Will you support the State of Florida water quality testing all rivers?

    I will work to require and fund the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to testing all rivers frequently and at closely-spaced sites. testing all rivers frequently and at closely-spaced sites to test all rivers frequently and at closely-spaced sites.

19. Would you support a pesticide liability shield?

    No

20. What are your primary concerns regarding water?

    Aquifer depletion from commercial overuse, nutrient pollution driving algae blooms in Lake Okeechobee and coastal waters, sweetheart extraction deals for bottling companies, and the absence of enforceable limits on industrial and agricultural discharge.

21. Do you support the state preemptions of local government via restrictions of municipal action, codes, or ordinances?

    No

22. Which state preemptions of local governments do you support, if any?

    Preemptions that establish minimum environmental and water quality standards as a floor, not a ceiling. Local governments should retain authority to set stricter protections.

Thomas Eloy Fernandez, Democratic

1. Do you oppose Water First North Florida (WFNF), the plan to pipe treated wastewater from Jacksonville into the Suwannee River Basin?

   I support an independent scientific review before any project proceeds. Water quality, public health, and ecosystem protection must come first. Any proposal should meet rigorous environmental standards, include public input, and demonstrate that it will not adversely affect the Suwannee River Basin.

2. Do you support a ban on transfers of water from one river basin to another?

   Water transfers should be evaluated using sound science, regional water needs, and long-term sustainability. I support protecting Florida’s water resources and would require that any inter-basin transfer demonstrate a clear public benefit without causing unacceptable environmental harm.

3. Do you support seawater desalination for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?

   I support continued research and carefully planned desalination where it is environmentally and economically appropriate. Desalination should complement—not replace—water conservation, aquifer protection, infrastructure improvements, and responsible water management.

4. Do you support potable reuse for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?

   I support potable reuse where it meets rigorous public health, environmental, and engineering standards. Potable reuse should complement conservation, aquifer protection, and infrastructure improvements as part of a diversified long-term water strategy.

5. Do you support efforts to recharge the Floridan Aquifer, springs, and rivers that do not require massive engineering?

   Yes

6. Do you support a water budget for north Florida, requiring water withdrawal permits to be limited or reduced when exceeded?

   I support science-based water management that protects Florida’s long-term water supply. Water withdrawal decisions should be based on sustainable yield, regional conditions, and sound scientific data while balancing environmental protection, agriculture, economic development, and community needs.

7. What will you do to reform the Water Management Districts (WMDs)?

   I will appoint qualified, ethical board members with expertise in science, water management, agriculture, engineering, conservation, and community needs while promoting transparency, accountability, and evidence-based decision-making.

8. Will you work to require hyper-scale datacenters

   I support requiring hyper-scale data centers to protect Florida’s water resources through efficient cooling technologies, responsible wastewater management, energy efficiency, and compliance with rigorous environmental standards.

9. Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs)

   I will work to require and fund the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to enforce existing contamination laws

10. What is your position on the rampant growth of population in Florida and its effect on our natural resources?

    Florida’s continued growth brings tremendous opportunities, but it also places increasing demands on our water resources, infrastructure, transportation systems, housing, and natural environment. As Governor, I will support responsible growth that is guided by sound planning, scientific data, and sustainable resource management. Growth should protect our springs, rivers, wetlands, and aquifer while preserving agriculture, private property rights, and Florida’s unique natural heritage. Our goal should be to leave Florida better than we found it for future generations.

11. What solutions do you offer to protect our springs from over-pumping and pollution from various sources?

    Florida’s springs are among our state’s greatest natural resources and deserve long-term protection. I support science-based water management, responsible permitting, investments in wastewater and stormwater infrastructure, stronger enforcement of existing pollution laws, agricultural best management practices that produce measurable results, and conservation efforts that reduce unnecessary groundwater withdrawals. Protecting our springs requires cooperation among state agencies, local governments, agriculture, businesses, and communities while ensuring sustainable water supplies for future generations.

12. Do you support a Right to Clean Water in the Florida Constitution Article I?

    I support Floridians having access to clean water and would carefully review any proposed constitutional amendment to ensure it protects our natural resources while providing clear, workable standards and respecting existing constitutional rights.

13. Do you support repealing HB 1205 of 2025, which greatly complicates citizens petitions for amendments to the state constitution?

    I support Floridians having access to clean water and would carefully review any proposed constitutional amendment to ensure it protects our natural resources while providing clear, workable standards and respecting existing constitutional rights.

14. Concurrent with safe sleep awareness efforts to reduce infant mortality via SIDS, will you ensure rural health departments have resources to facilitate and communities have access to drinking water testing and education? If not, how else will you address the maternal and prenatal rural drinking water crisis?

    Yes. Every Florida family deserves access to safe drinking water regardless of where they live. As Governor, I will support partnerships among the Florida Department of Health, rural health departments, local governments, and water utilities to expand water testing, public education, infrastructure improvements, and early intervention programs. Protecting maternal and infant health begins with clean drinking water, strong public health systems, and proactive investments that reduce environmental health risks.

15. How will rural communities and small cities adapt to potential changes in tax structures? What strategies do you propose they implement? What about funding for public parks, 4H/youth programs, and agricultural extension?

    Florida’s rural communities are essential to our state’s economy, agriculture, and natural heritage. Any changes to state or local tax policy should avoid placing disproportionate burdens on small communities. I support sustainable funding for public parks, 4-H and youth development programs, agricultural extension services, and infrastructure that strengthens local economies. I also support expanding grant opportunities, public-private partnerships, and responsible fiscal management to help rural communities remain economically competitive while preserving their unique character.

16. Will you ensure free speech and first amendment rights are upheld by opposing agricultural muzzle clauses?

    Yes

17. If you aren’t monitoring, you aren’t managing. How can water quality and supply monitoring efforts be improved and better coordinated?

    Effective water management begins with accurate, transparent, and timely information. I support expanding coordinated water quality and water supply monitoring among state agencies, water management districts, local governments, universities, and community partners. Monitoring data should be publicly accessible, science-based, and used to guide responsible permitting, infrastructure investments, and conservation efforts while identifying problems before they become costly crises.

18. Will you support the State of Florida water quality testing all rivers?

    I support science-based water quality monitoring across Florida’s rivers using a risk-based approach that prioritizes vulnerable watersheds while ensuring reliable statewide monitoring, public transparency, and sustainable funding.

19. Would you support a pesticide liability shield?

    No

20. What are your primary concerns regarding water?

    Florida’s long-term water security depends on protecting both water quality and water supply. My primary concerns are protecting our aquifer and springs, reducing pollution from multiple sources, investing in aging water and wastewater infrastructure, ensuring sustainable groundwater withdrawals, strengthening science-based water management, and preparing for continued population growth. Every Floridian deserves access to clean, safe, and affordable water while preserving our natural resources for future generations.

21. Do you support the state preemptions of local government via restrictions of municipal action, codes, or ordinances?

    No

22. Which state preemptions of local governments do you support, if any?

    I support statewide standards when there is a clear statewide interest, such as protecting constitutional rights, ensuring uniform public safety standards, or maintaining consistent statewide regulatory frameworks. However, I believe local governments should retain appropriate authority to address local environmental, infrastructure, and community needs when those actions do not conflict with state law or constitutional protections.

MW khan, WRI

1. Do you oppose Water First North Florida (WFNF), the plan to pipe treated wastewater from Jacksonville into the Suwannee River Basin?

   I will immediately propose a moratorium on the project, conduct an independent scientific and environmental review with full public transparency, and proceed only if it is proven to protect Florida’s water, environment, and communities. If the project is found to cause significant harm, I will work to cancel it.

2. Do you support a ban on transfers of water from one river basin to another?

   I support protecting Florida’s water resources. Water transfers between river basins should not occur unless they are proven scientifically to cause no environmental harm, have local public support, and are necessary for public health or emergencies. Otherwise, I will work to prohibit such transfers.

3. Do you support seawater desalination for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?

   Yes, when it is environmentally responsible and cost-effective. I support investing in desalination as part of Florida’s long-term water strategy, together with water conservation, aquifer protection, and reuse of treated water where appropriate.

4. Do you support potable reuse for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?

   I support safe potable reuse when it meets the highest scientific standards, includes full public transparency, and protects Florida’s health and environment. It should be used as one part of a broader water strategy that includes conservation, protecting aquifers, and responsible management of Florida’s water resources.

5. Do you support efforts to recharge the Floridan Aquifer, springs, and rivers that do not require massive engineering?

   Yes

6. Do you support a water budget for north Florida, requiring water withdrawal permits to be limited or reduced when exceeded?

   I will work to make Water Management Districts more accountable to the people of Florida through greater transparency, public oversight, and science-based decision-making. Board members should be qualified, ethical, and committed to protecting Florida’s water resources. I support reforms that ensure balanced representation, including scientific and environmental expertise, while giving citizens a stronger voice in decisions that affect their communities.

7. What will you do to reform the Water Management Districts (WMDs)?

   : I will reform Water Management Districts by requiring greater transparency, public accountability, and science-based decision-making. Board members should be qualified, ethical, and include appropriate scientific and environmental expertise while remaining accountable to the citizens they serve.

8. Will you work to require hyper-scale datacenters

   I support responsible technology growth, but hyper-scale datacenters must meet strict environmental standards. I will require closed-loop cooling where feasible, prohibit harmful wastewater discharge into Florida’s waterways and groundwater, and encourage renewable energy sources to reduce pressure on our water resources. Economic development must be balanced with protecting Florida’s future.

9. Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs)

   I will strengthen Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs) by requiring measurable results, transparent reporting, and real accountability for reducing nitrates and other contaminants. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection must have the authority and resources needed to enforce existing environmental protections and hold polluters accountable.

10. What is your position on the rampant growth of population in Florida and its effect on our natural resources?

    Florida’s growth must be managed responsibly. I welcome families, businesses, and innovation, but growth cannot come at the expense of our water, environment, infrastructure, and quality of life. We need responsible planning, protection of natural resources, affordable housing, improved infrastructure, and sustainable development that ensures Florida remains a great place to live for future generations.

11. What solutions do you offer to protect our springs from over-pumping and pollution from various sources?

12. Do you support a Right to Clean Water in the Florida Constitution Article I?

    I will protect Florida’s springs through responsible water management, stronger accountability, and science-based solutions. We must prevent over-pumping by setting sustainable withdrawal limits, improve enforcement against pollution, reduce harmful runoff, protect natural recharge areas, and invest in conservation and restoration efforts. Florida’s springs are a treasure, and protecting them requires transparency, accountability, and action—not just promises.

13. Do you support repealing HB 1205 of 2025, which greatly complicates citizens petitions for amendments to the state constitution?

    Yes

14. Concurrent with safe sleep awareness efforts to reduce infant mortality via SIDS, will you ensure rural health departments have resources to facilitate and communities have access to drinking water testing and education? If not, how else will you address the maternal and prenatal rural drinking water crisis?

    Yes. I will ensure rural health departments have the resources needed to provide safe drinking water testing, education, and support for families, especially expecting mothers and infants. Protecting public health requires early action, transparency, and accountability. I will work to identify contamination risks, expand access to testing, and ensure communities have the information and resources needed to protect maternal and infant health.

15. How will rural communities and small cities adapt to potential changes in tax structures? What strategies do you propose they implement? What about funding for public parks, 4H/youth programs, and agricultural extension?

    Rural communities and small cities must not be left behind during any changes to tax structures. I will support responsible financial planning, transparency in government spending, and strategies that strengthen local economies without placing unfair burdens on residents. My administration will prioritize keeping essential services strong, including public parks, 4-H and youth programs, agricultural extension services, and opportunities for future generations. We should invest in rural entrepreneurship, agriculture, technology, and workforce development while ensuring taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and accountably. Florida’s rural communities are not an afterthought they are an important part of our state’s identity and future.

16. Will you ensure free speech and first amendment rights are upheld by opposing agricultural muzzle clauses?

    Yes

17. If you aren’t monitoring, you aren’t managing. How can water quality and supply monitoring efforts be improved and better coordinated?

    Florida must improve water monitoring through better coordination, transparency, and accountability. I will support a statewide system that brings together the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Water Management Districts, local governments, universities, and communities to share real-time data on water quality and supply. We cannot manage what we do not measure. Monitoring should include groundwater levels, springs, rivers, contaminants, and long-term trends, with information available to the public. Better data will allow Florida to prevent problems before they become crises and make science-based decisions that protect our water future.

18. Will you support the State of Florida water quality testing all rivers?

    I support comprehensive and frequent water quality testing of Florida’s rivers, with closely spaced monitoring sites based on scientific need and environmental risk. I will work to ensure the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has the resources, transparency, and accountability needed to protect Florida’s waterways and public health.

19. Would you support a pesticide liability shield?

    No

20. What are your primary concerns regarding water?

    My primary concerns regarding water are protecting Florida’s drinking water supply, preventing pollution, reducing over-pumping of our aquifers, and preserving our springs, rivers, and natural ecosystems. Florida’s rapid growth requires responsible water management, better monitoring, transparency, and accountability. We must protect our water resources today so future generations can afford and access clean water tomorrow.

21. Do you support the state preemptions of local government via restrictions of municipal action, codes, or ordinances?

    No

22. Which state preemptions of local governments do you support, if any?

    I support state standards only when they protect fundamental rights, public safety, environmental protection, or ensure fairness across Florida. However, I oppose unnecessary preemptions that prevent local communities from addressing their own unique challenges. Local governments should have the flexibility to serve their residents while following reasonable statewide protections.

Daniel Nokovich, Republican

1. Do you oppose Water First North Florida (WFNF), the plan to pipe treated wastewater from Jacksonville into the Suwannee River Basin?

   I will work to cancel the project

2. Do you support a ban on transfers of water from one river basin to another?

   Yes

3. Do you support seawater desalination for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?

   desalination can be very costly. If businesses need more water than is available, I would propose they pay for their own desalination plants.

4. Do you support potable reuse for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?

   I’ve been a part of reuse before and the filtration is never adequate for human consumption. Non restaurant businesses should have access to potable reused water and save on the aquafer. Stop AI centers dead in their tracks and propose moratoriums on invasive species like DATA centers.

5. Do you support efforts to recharge the Floridan Aquifer, springs, and rivers that do not require massive engineering?

   Other

6. Do you support a water budget for north Florida, requiring water withdrawal permits to be limited or reduced when exceeded?

   Residents should be able to obtain their own wells, and we can figure out a way for companies to desalinate, use condensation machines to capture water and so on. Limiting water to farmers and residents is overreach.

7. What will you do to reform the Water Management Districts (WMDs)?

   I will incorporate an auditory board to report to the Executive legislative branch and the 1st branch of government( We the People)

8. Will you work to require hyper-scale datacenters

   AI Data centers are the brains behind mass surveillance, FLOCK cameras, digital currency control and 15 minute cities that include social point system being implemented in China

9. Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs)

   Funding another round of departments does not constitute a shrewd use of money pulled from the pockets of everyday citizens. Sometimes instead of reinventing the wheel, we need to find out which spokes are missing on the wheel that we already have in possession. Find the root of the problem and quit treating the fruit. In other words, treat the cause, not the effect.

10. What is your position on the rampant growth of population in Florida and its effect on our natural resources?

    I think growth should be healthy and beneficial. When it becomes a burden because there is a lack of structure and vision to support such expansion, then there needs to be a repose and reflection in order to conscript a viable and bullet proof solution. Nothing in the universe gets free expansion without fore thought except for here on earth where men and women plunge on ahead without considering the dangers or plumbing the depths. It’s like the old saying; never jump into a water whole without canvassing the bottom for dangerous debris.

11. What solutions do you offer to protect our springs from over-pumping and pollution from various sources?

    If we implement a pure water act, which would include a pollution audit for every person, stop spraying our waters with herbicides and start harvesting the weeds instead. Criminalize and enforce measures to hold companies responsible for neglecting their duties to safe guard the basic care of the environment. Not to be mistaken for total mismanagement of underbrush and natural waterways.

12. Do you support a Right to Clean Water in the Florida Constitution Article I?

    As stated before, I support a Pure water act(Right to Clean Water) Healthy food, Clean air(no chemical trails) and Soil revitalization by banning dangerous chemicals and land sabbaths.

13. Do you support repealing HB 1205 of 2025, which greatly complicates citizens petitions for amendments to the state constitution?

    I will have to review the full HB in order to ascertain an educated response.

14. Concurrent with safe sleep awareness efforts to reduce infant mortality via SIDS, will you ensure rural health departments have resources to facilitate and communities have access to drinking water testing and education? If not, how else will you address the maternal and prenatal rural drinking water crisis?

    SIDS affects close to .05 in 1000 babies. Where as Abortion affects 216 per 1000 babies. If we’re really concerned for the well being of babies, we need to eliminate Abortion altogether.

15. How will rural communities and small cities adapt to potential changes in tax structures? What strategies do you propose they implement? What about funding for public parks, 4H/youth programs, and agricultural extension?

    I am for eliminating all taxes and returning control back to the people of Florida. Taking peoples money and then granting them limited access to what their hard earned money purchased is communism, a system that I oppose with every Patriotic drop of blood in my veins.

16. Will you ensure free speech and first amendment rights are upheld by opposing agricultural muzzle clauses?

    Yes

17. If you aren’t monitoring, you aren’t managing. How can water quality and supply monitoring efforts be improved and better coordinated?

    A Pure water auditory board to audit the entire state for poor water quality or criminal levels of chemicals being used to make foggy water disappear but not purify. Hold all distributors of H2O accountable for their public trust.

18. Will you support the State of Florida water quality testing all rivers?

    Again, there is savings that can be implemented without a lot of wasteful spending. Sampling can be accomplished by interns or college students. We don’t need a bigger governmental bureaucracy with limitless tax funded liabilities. Consign these operations to existing Florida higher education and vocational learning entities already equipped with scientific labs and scientists.

19. Would you support a pesticide liability shield?

    No

20. What are your primary concerns regarding water?

    Citizens pure water delivery and AI centers hogging precious water resources.

21. Do you support the state preemptions of local government via restrictions of municipal action, codes, or ordinances?

    Yes

22. Which state preemptions of local governments do you support, if any?

    Anything that preempts the constitution, be it state or federal. I understand that some laws must be challenged and then changed, but some municipalities would like to ignore all state and federal constitutional mandates, which then puts the entire union in jeopardy of cohesion and unity.

David DJ DeJesus, WRI

1. Do you oppose Water First North Florida (WFNF), the plan to pipe treated wastewater from Jacksonville into the Suwannee River Basin?

   Yes

2. Do you support a ban on transfers of water from one river basin to another?

   Yes

3. Do you support seawater desalination for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?

   Yes

4. Do you support potable reuse for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?

   No

5. Do you support efforts to recharge the Floridan Aquifer, springs, and rivers that do not require massive engineering?

   I support forestry wetland well recharge

6. Do you support a water budget for north Florida, requiring water withdrawal permits to be limited or reduced when exceeded?

   I will work for state support for a water budget.

7. What will you do to reform the Water Management Districts (WMDs)?

   I will work to require half of each WMD’s board to be from scientific or environmental backgrounds.

8. Will you work to require hyper-scale datacenters

   Build their own renewable power source & water source( desalination plants). Share excess power & water produced. Not to discharge untreated waste water into waterways and groundwater.

9. Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs)

   I will work to require and fund the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to enforce existing contamination laws

10. What is your position on the rampant growth of population in Florida and its effect on our natural resources?

    Florida needs to control external population growth and that is why as the Governor I will impose income tax on every one moving to Florida for the first five years of residency.

11. What solutions do you offer to protect our springs from over-pumping and pollution from various sources?

    Strictly enforce pollution laws and penalties including from vehicle and factory exhausts. Fund desalination plants to ensure there is adequate water supplies in case of prolonged droughts as well as clean the ocean water of pollutants. Increased monitoring from the State & citizens for polluters.

12. Do you support a Right to Clean Water in the Florida Constitution Article I?

    Clean water, air and soil

13. Do you support repealing HB 1205 of 2025, which greatly complicates citizens petitions for amendments to the state constitution?

    Yes

14. Concurrent with safe sleep awareness efforts to reduce infant mortality via SIDS, will you ensure rural health departments have resources to facilitate and communities have access to drinking water testing and education? If not, how else will you address the maternal and prenatal rural drinking water crisis?

    Yes.

15. How will rural communities and small cities adapt to potential changes in tax structures? What strategies do you propose they implement? What about funding for public parks, 4H/youth programs, and agricultural extension?

    I will conduct community meetings & caucuses to determine the real problems & craft solutions acceptable to these communities. Definitely increase funding for public parks, youth programs, agricultural extensions and environmental clean ups of public places such as roads & restrooms.I will enact strict standards to keep Florida clean & beautiful.

16. Will you ensure free speech and first amendment rights are upheld by opposing agricultural muzzle clauses?

    Yes

17. If you aren’t monitoring, you aren’t managing. How can water quality and supply monitoring efforts be improved and better coordinated?

    Through better coordination of state government agencies and public oversight.

18. Will you support the State of Florida water quality testing all rivers?

    I will work to require and fund the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to testing all rivers frequently and at closely-spaced sites. testing all rivers frequently and at closely-spaced sites to test all rivers frequently and at closely-spaced sites.

19. Would you support a pesticide liability shield?

    No

20. What are your primary concerns regarding water?

    Adequacy & safety for growing population & businesses in the next 10 years.

21. Do you support the state preemptions of local government via restrictions of municipal action, codes, or ordinances?

    No

22. Which state preemptions of local governments do you support, if any?

    One that makes sense and local government overreach.

Jim Holcomb, Republican

1. Do you oppose Water First North Florida (WFNF), the plan to pipe treated wastewater from Jacksonville into the Suwannee River Basin?

   No, I support WFNF

2. Do you support a ban on transfers of water from one river basin to another?

   Water should stay where lands

3. Do you support seawater desalination for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?

   If because of fresh water shortages.

4. Do you support potable reuse for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?

   No

5. Do you support efforts to recharge the Floridan Aquifer, springs, and rivers that do not require massive engineering?

   Other

6. Do you support a water budget for north Florida, requiring water withdrawal permits to be limited or reduced when exceeded?

   I need information, generally less government involvement

7. What will you do to reform the Water Management Districts (WMDs)?

   I ? Water Management exceeding US Constitution 4 th Amendment property rights.

8. Will you work to require hyper-scale datacenters

   The above sounds unconstitutional

9. Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs)

   I have lived on Lake Apopka the last 24 years and only see improvement by raising water level with dam. Water repair seems non -existing.

10. What is your position on the rampant growth of population in Florida and its effect on our natural resources?

    One home per 5 acres generally.

11. What solutions do you offer to protect our springs from over-pumping and pollution from various sources?

    Rain water should not leave property boundaries.

12. Do you support a Right to Clean Water in the Florida Constitution Article I?

    I believe the Governor should comply with Article 4 Section 1 and judges comply with the Code of Judicial Conduct and eliminate the Doctrine of Judicial Immunity which protects judges from damages for Judicial Malpractice.

13. Do you support repealing HB 1205 of 2025, which greatly complicates citizens petitions for amendments to the state constitution?

    Probably

14. Concurrent with safe sleep awareness efforts to reduce infant mortality via SIDS, will you ensure rural health departments have resources to facilitate and communities have access to drinking water testing and education? If not, how else will you address the maternal and prenatal rural drinking water crisis?

    I was an Orlando Firefighter 1974 – 2004. Child life is a priority.

15. How will rural communities and small cities adapt to potential changes in tax structures? What strategies do you propose they implement? What about funding for public parks, 4H/youth programs, and agricultural extension?

    Most programs for children do well without government.

16. Will you ensure free speech and first amendment rights are upheld by opposing agricultural muzzle clauses?

    Yes

17. If you aren’t monitoring, you aren’t managing. How can water quality and supply monitoring efforts be improved and better coordinated?

    Maybe by private monitoring and less government.

18. Will you support the State of Florida water quality testing all rivers?

    Government may prevent quality monitoring

19. Would you support a pesticide liability shield?

20. What are your primary concerns regarding water?

    Government involvement.

21. Do you support the state preemptions of local government via restrictions of municipal action, codes, or ordinances?

    Yes

22. Which state preemptions of local governments do you support, if any?

    Money considerations at all government levels

Madison Blue Spring, 2024-06-08, 15:04:05, –jsq for WWALS 30.4807798, -83.2437712

The Questions: WWALS Political Candidate Clean Water Questionnaire

Here you can see what the choices were.

1. Do you oppose Water First North Florida (WFNF), the plan to pipe treated wastewater from Jacksonville into the Suwannee River Basin?
   • Yes
   • I will propose a moratorium
   • I will work to cancel the project
   • No, I support WFNF
   • Other
2. Do you support a ban on transfers of water from one river basin to another?
   • Yes
   • I will work for a legal ban
   • No
   • Other
3. Do you support seawater desalination for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?
   • Yes
   • I will work for state support for seawater desalination
   • No
   • Other
4. Do you support potable reuse for drinking water and to reduce groundwater withdrawals?
   • Yes
   • I will work for state support for potable reuse
   • No
   • Other
5. Do you support efforts to recharge the Floridan Aquifer, springs, and rivers that do not require massive engineering?
   • Yes
   • I support forestry wetland well recharge
   • I will work to clear legal hurdles for safe, clean forestry wetland well recharge
   • No
   • Other
6. Do you support a water budget for north Florida, requiring water withdrawal permits to be limited or reduced when exceeded?
   • Yes
   • I will work for state support for a water budget.
   • No
   • Other
7. What will you do to reform the Water Management Districts (WMDs)?
   • I will work to make WMD boards elected.
   • I will work to create a WMD board member recall mechanism.
   • I will work to require all WMD board positions to be filled.
   • I will work to require half of each WMD’s board to be from scientific or environmental backgrounds.
   • Other
8. Will you work to require hyper-scale datacenters
   • To use closed-loop cooling
   • Not to discharge untreated wastewater into waterways or groundwater
   • To provide their power through renewable energy instead of from new fossil fuel power plants (which require massive cooling water)
   • I will work for a moratorium on hyper-scale datacenters
   • I will work for a ban on hyper-scale datacenters
   • I support hyper-scale datacenters with none of the above requirements
   • Other
9. Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs)
   • I will work to modify BMAPs so they actually reduce nitrates and other contaminants leaching into rivers and streams
   • I will work to require and fund the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to enforce existing contamination laws
   • Other
10. What is your position on the rampant growth of population in Florida and its effect on our natural resources?

    [Long answer text]

11. What solutions do you offer to protect our springs from over-pumping and pollution from various sources?

    [Long answer text]

12. Do you support a Right to Clean Water in the Florida Constitution Article I?
    • Yes
    • If elected to the legislature, will you introduce a bill for Right to Clean Water in the Florida Constitution Article I?
    • If elected to the legislature, will you support a bill for Right to Clean Water in the Florida Constitution Article I?
    • Should a Right to Clean Water also include Right to Clean Air and Soil?
    • No
    • Other
13. Do you support repealing HB 1205 of 2025, which greatly complicates citizens petitions for amendments to the state constitution?
    • Yes
    • If elected to the legislature, will you introduce a bill to repeal HB 1205?
    • If elected to the legislature, will you support a bill to repeal HB 1205?
    • No
    • Other
14. Concurrent with safe sleep awareness efforts to reduce infant mortality via SIDS, will you ensure rural health departments have resources to facilitate and communities have access to drinking water testing and education? If not, how else will you address the maternal and prenatal rural drinking water crisis?

    [Long answer text]

15. How will rural communities and small cities adapt to potential changes in tax structures? What strategies do you propose they implement? What about funding for public parks, 4H/youth programs, and agricultural extension?

    [Long answer text]

16. Will you ensure free speech and first amendment rights are upheld by opposing agricultural muzzle clauses?
    • Yes
    • No
17. If you aren’t monitoring, you aren’t managing. How can water quality and supply monitoring efforts be improved and better coordinated?

    [Long answer text]

18. Will you support the State of Florida water quality testing all rivers?
    • Yes
    • I will work for testing all rivers frequently and at closely-spaced sites.
    • I will work to require and fund the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to testing all rivers frequently and at closely-spaced sites.
    • No
    • Other
19. Would you support a pesticide liability shield?
    • Yes
    • No
20. What are your primary concerns regarding water?

    [Long answer text]

21. Do you support the state preemptions of local government via restrictions of municipal action, codes, or ordinances?
    • Yes
    • No
22. Which state preemptions of local governments do you support, if any?

    [Long answer text]

 -jsq, John S. Quarterman, Suwannee RIVERKEEPER®

You can help with clean, swimmable, fishable, drinkable, water in the 10,000-square-mile Suwannee River Basin in Florida and Georgia by becoming a WWALS member today!
https://wwals.net/donations/