Drew Palmer has officially launched his campaign for the position of Okaloosa County Commissioner District 5, following the announcement of Commissioner Mel Ponder not seeking re-election.
- Palmer, who describes himself as a conservative dedicated to God, family, and community, says he aims to serve the people of Okaloosa County, as stated in his campaign press release today.
Palmer resides in Destin with his wife Jodi, an elementary school teacher, and their daughters Reagan and Riley. They worship at Shoreline Church.
In a press release on Tuesday afternoon, Palmer says he has sought ways to make a positive impact on his community, including serving as a founding member of the Governing Board of Destin High School, where he contributed to reducing overcrowding and encouraging educational excellence in Okaloosa County.
“As a husband and father, I’ve been blessed to raise my family in Okaloosa County. I want our kids to have the same opportunity,” said Palmer. “Our exceptional public servants have done a phenomenal job making our county a great place to live and work. I want to continue their good work, ensuring that our kids can grow up here, be educated here, work here and contribute to making Okaloosa County an economic powerhouse on the panhandle.”
Palmer’s career journey began in the United States Air Force before transitioning to the engineering sector, where he supervised staff members working on software development and operational intelligence for the National Security Agency (NSA).
- Palmer holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Colorado Technical University, a Master’s Degree in Operations Management from the University of Arkansas, and a Master’s Degree in Leadership from Mid-America Christian University.
If elected, Palmer says he plans to focus on several key issues including:
- Affordable housing for teachers and first responders.
- Supporting law enforcement and public safety.
- Providing efficient and transparent county operations.
- Infrastructure development.
- Economic growth.
Following this morning’s announcement that Commissioner Ponder will not be seeking re-election, Congressman Matt Gaetz said, “Okaloosa Commissioner Mel Ponder has been an outstanding public servant. He carries Ginger and my well wishes into his next chapter in life.”
He then publicly endorsed Palmer:
- “Drew Palmer has my total and complete endorsement in his campaign,” wrote Rep. Gaetz. “Drew loves Okaloosa County. He will keep our taxes low and our streets safe. Please join me in supporting Drew Palmer!”
Palmer says that after spending “countless hours and personal financial resources” to elect qualified and conservative Republicans for office, it’s now time for him to roll up his sleeves and put his experience to work for the taxpayers and voters of Okaloosa County.
“Let’s all thank Commissioner Mel Ponder for his dedicated service to the people of Okaloosa County and the State of Florida,” continued Palmer. “If elected, I will do my best to follow his heart and always put the people first.”
