Jim Bagby has secured a spot on the 2026 Walton County Commission ballot after collecting enough voter signatures through Florida’s petition process, his campaign announced Monday.
- The longtime resident and military veteran said the effort was driven by one-on-one conversations with residents across the county, and that early grassroots support has fueled his campaign from the start.
“This campaign wouldn’t exist without the people of Walton County,” Bagby said. “From the start, it’s been powered by neighbors stepping up and getting involved. Those candid, one-on-one conversations are often overlooked, but they matter most. I’m grateful the people of Walton County have put me on the ballot, and our work together is just beginning.”
Bagby brings more than two decades of professional experience in Walton County to the race. He previously served as executive director of Visit South Walton, general manager of One Seagrove Place and town manager of Rosemary Beach for 10 years. Most recently, he served as district director for Matt Gaetz and is a current Destin City Councilman.
Before building his career on the Emerald Coast, Bagby spent 24 years in the U.S. Army, enlisting at age 18. He eventually settled with his family in the area.
His campaign platform centers on long-term planning, transparent processes, community input in development and infrastructure decisions, environmental stewardship and responsive leadership.
One Response
Jim Bagby, take the pledge to always support & fight for the citizens & tourists proven historic right to free and unobstructed access to and use of the beaches in Walton County. Do this and I will support your campaign.