A.G. Gancarski
There are more than 300 candidates running for the 160 seats in the Florida House and Senate. And, try as we will, FloridaPolitics.com won’t be able to interview all of them.
So we are asking every candidate, including incumbents, to complete a questionnaire we believe offers an interesting, albeit, thumbnail sketch of who they are and why they are running. If you are a candidate and would like to complete the questionnaire, email [email protected].
Today’s candidate spotlight features Clay Yarborough, a Jacksonville Republican running in Florida House District 12.
Here he is in his own words:
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Significant other? Kids?
My wife, Jordan, and I have three boys: Emerson, Grayson, and Barrett.
Education background? Professional background?
Bachelor’s in Business Administration from the University of North Florida; I have worked at UPS for 12 years and in my role as a human resources professional, I have personally interviewed and had the privilege to hire over 1,200 people.
What was your first job?
Operating cameras for the local community television station.
In 25 words or less, why are you running for office?
Public service is my passion. I love my family, city, state, and country and want to make all better through personal engagement in the process.
Did you speak with anybody in your political party before deciding on running? Receive any encouragement? From whom?
I discussed running with current and former members of the Florida Legislature, former colleagues from the Jacksonville City Council, people who had volunteered on my past campaigns, and, most importantly, my wife, family, and pastor. All encouraged me to run and all are helping in my campaign in various capacities.
Who do you count on for advice?
My wife, my family, and my pastor.
Who is your political consultant? Campaign manager?
Bert Ralston, Vox Populi Communications
Who was the first person to contribute to your campaign? Why did they donate?
Greg Matovina was the first and is a longtime supporter.
Who, if anyone, inspires you in state government?
Jay Fant and Paul Renner
Why do people mistrust elected officials and what are you going to do about it?
When those chosen to serve fail to honor their commitments, it causes everyone to have a level of mistrust. While on the Jacksonville City Council, I always sought to respectfully listen to everyone and then make decisions in a way that I had promised.
What are 3 issues that you’re running on? (You’re not allowed to say education or “improving the schools”)
Public safety, jobs and the economy, and enhancing the quality of life in District 12.
What is a “disruptive” issue (i.e. ride-sharing) you are interested in?
I have always been interested in innovation that makes our lives better. Ridesharing is a prime example.
What does your legislative district need from Tallahassee?
Less taxes, removing onerous and unnecessary regulations, and creating an environment that will help our small businesses continue to grow.
Who was the best governor in Florida’s modern history?
In my life, Rick Scott and Jeb Bush stand out.
If you could amend the Florida Constitution, what would you change?
I would be more likely to remove unnecessary or outdated laws than to create new ones.
Are yard signs an important part of campaigning in your district?
Absolutely, and I am overwhelmed by how many people are asking for them.
What’s the first thing you read each morning?
Jordan and I read God’s Word with our boys.
Where do you get your political news?
FloridaPolitics.com, where else?
Who do you think will be the next President of the United States?
Donald Trump
60 Minutes or House of Cards?
Neither
Social media presence? Twitter handle?
Facebook and more to come.
In 140 characters, what’s a Tweet that best describes your campaign message?
Tested and Trusted Conservative Leadership for Jacksonville
Hobbies?
As the father of three boys under the age of four, I have forgotten the meaning of the word “hobby”!
Favorite sport and sports team?
Football, Jaguars
