Over 200 attend Apopka Chamber Hob Nob

147 voters cast ballots in Hob Nob Straw Poll

Political candidates from around Central Florida converged last night at The Apopka VFW Community Center to take part in the Political Hob Nob sponsored by The Apopka Area Chamber of Commerce. They shook hands, handed out business cards, and talked to attendees in an informal setting.

There were 19 candidates and more than 200 local business leaders and community members in attendance.

“We hope that the candidates are able to capitalize on the opportunity to share their respective visions for the greater Apopka area and the state as a whole,” said Chamber President Laura A. Heiselman. “We are particularly pleased to feature several judicial candidates. It is often challenging to learn more about these particular races so this event gives our attendees the chance to engage with candidates on a one-on-one basis to help make informed decisions.”

147 Voters participated in the Straw Poll.

The Hob Nob format is essentially a trade show for candidates… allowing attendees to engage one-on-one with the candidates and business exhibitors.

There were no formal speeches, forums or debates, but there was a straw poll taken with the winners announced at the end of the evening by Chamber Board Chairman Jeff Welch.

147 ballots were cast for 18 different elections from President all the way local elections.

Republican John Mica and Democrat Val Demmings share a rare photo together.

In the Presidential Straw Poll, Hillary Clinton defeated Donald Trump 68-60 with Gary Johnson receiving 13 votes.

For the US Senate, Marco Rubio defeated Alan Grayson 61-33 with Patrick Murphy receiving 25 votes.

For the US House District 10 race, Val Demings and Thuy Lowe tied with 55 votes each, followed by Geraldine Thompson with 19.

For the State Senate District 11, Bob Sindler defeated Randolph Bracy 46-31, followed by Chuck O’ Neal with 25 votes and Gary Siplin with 22.

For the State House District 31, Jennifer Sullivan defeated Robert Rightmyer 76-27, followed by Theo Bob with 12 votes.

For the State House District 45, Greg Jackson defeated Kamia Brown 41-26 followed by Kelvin Cobaris with 17.

For Orange County Sheriff, Jerry Demings defeated Spike Hopkins 81-63.

For Supervisor of Elections, Bill Cowles defeated Della Davis 109-25.

For Orange County School Board District 7, Christine Moore defeated Matthew Fitzpatrick 54-45, followed by Isadora Dean with 27 votes.

For complete results of the Straw Poll, go here.