Florida House District 39 is a political battleground with an equal number of registered Democrat and Republican voters within its borders. Apopka is the largest and fastest-growing city in District 39 and, in many ways, is the cornerstone to victory.
And no one knows this city and its politics better than Doug Bankson.
Bankson, the incumbent first-term representative of District 39, began his career as an elected official by winning the 2016 election for Seat #3 on the Apopka City Commission. He defended the seat in 2020 but vacated it in 2022 to successfully run for the Florida Legislature and the newly formed District 39.
Bankson won with 55% of the vote, but 2022 was an election cycle that heavily favored Republicans in Florida. In contrast, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis received 59% of the vote in District 39, while Marco Rubio received 53%.
But in a presidential election cycle where Florida shouldn't be as one-sided, will another 55% performance be attainable?
Bankson faces Marsha Summersill, a local attorney, in his re-election bid. Summersill is a Democrat with ties to Apopka. She graduated from Apopka High School and describes herself as a moderate on most issues.
I talked to Bankson about the election and his last session in the Florida Legislature. He focused on several core issues important to Apopka, District 39, and Florida residents.
Reforming Insurance
Insurance reform is one of Bankson's key priorities, especially given the staggering increases that many homeowners have faced. He identifies litigation, inflation, and reinsurance as the primary factors driving up rates.
“We need to address the underlying issues sustainably,” he explains, referencing the successful closure of litigation loopholes that previously burdened the insurance system. “Without a long-term solution, temporary fixes will only make things worse.”
Economic Prosperity
Bankson stresses the significance of fostering a supportive atmosphere for economic development.
"Florida is the nation's number one economy now, so I'm just excited about making it a business-friendly environment," Bankson said. "And that's something, from serving here in the city and the Chamber of Commerce, that's always been a focus. Let's make sure that people can prosper and businesses can do well. And so I think that's very key, and that works here and across the state."
Education
Bankson takes pride in championing school choice and increasing teacher salaries.
"We put over $400 million into funding for teachers' salaries," he said. "And you know, we did that the first session I was there, but it mostly went to new hires. And really, that's not fair for those who have been in the trenches. So, this last year, we were able to do that. I just spoke with one of our Orange County officials here who said they were able to put more of a focus on those tenured teachers and those who've done the work. So that's something so important. And yet, at the same time, with all of that increase because of inflation, it still isn't enough."
Transportation Innovations
Transportation is crucial in a city like Apopka, where local, county, and state roads intersect. Bankson has increased funding for roadway improvements and is pushing for innovative solutions such as vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (VTOLs).
“These can literally transport from rural areas into downtown,” he said, excited about the potential to ease congestion and provide faster transit options for residents."
Pioneering Financial Reform
One of Bankson's most ambitious initiatives is the proposed gold and silver legal tender bill, which aims to declare these precious metals as legal currency in Florida.
“This bill could empower everyday Floridians to save and transact in a stable asset,” he said. “For over 490 years, we had a gold standard for our money. It’s time we restore that functionality.”
The proposal includes creating a secure depository for these metals, potentially partnering with existing institutions rather than building new facilities at taxpayer expense.
“We can utilize a depository without having to spend a cent,” he notes. “It’s a smart way to move forward.”
Collaborative Growth for Apopka
Looking toward the future, Bankson is dedicated to fostering unity within Apopka.
“I want to see our best work together,” he said. “If we don’t pull together, we’re going to get pulled apart.”
He believes that collaboration among city leaders and developers is essential to driving economic development, which is vital for the success of local restaurants and businesses.
“I’m excited about the potential for aviation industry growth around the airport,” he said, suggesting that attracting new industries will create jobs and boost the local economy. If we have enough economic development, jobs will stay home, and the restaurants can thrive.”
A style of governance
As Bankson navigates these core issues, the community and the voters of District 39 will closely watch the impact of his policies.
“I’d rather get it right than rushed,” Bankson says about his style of governance.
This cautious, pragmatic approach has been Bankson's calling card since his days on the Apopka City Council. However, with 36 days left until Election Day, it remains to be seen if a patient approach is as effective in politics as it may be in crafting policy.
