SW Florida Republicans Suffer No Fools: Least of Whom Break Ronald Reagan’s 11th Commandment

Lee County Election – David Mulicka vs. Matthew Thornton: A Tale of Two Candidates in the District 3 Commissioner Race

By Richard Luthmann

In Southwest Florida, the upcoming August 20 primary Lee County election for the District 3 seat on the Board of County Commissioners has become a heated contest between two Republican candidates: David Mulicka and Matthew Thornton.

While both candidates bring unique experiences, the race has been marked by controversies and sharp contrasts in their approaches and qualifications.

Mulicka has advanced a clean campaign presenting a vision for Lee County.

By contrast, Thornton’s roll-out features misstep after misstep, including a Federal voter fraud investigation. Critics accuse Thornton of going “negative” and breaking Ronald Reagan’s “Eleventh Commandment”: Thou shalt not speak ill of any fellow Republican.

David Mulicka: A Proven Leader with Deep Roots in Lee County

A native of Lee County and a lifelong resident, David Mulicka, 57, is deeply rooted in the community. As the owner and president of HONC Destruction, a demolition and recycling company, Mulicka has spent his career contributing to the local economy and building a reputation for integrity and commitment. Mulicka’s family are Lee County denizens for over a century. He seeks to continue his family legacy of service and community involvement.

Mulicka’s campaign has garnered significant support from notable figures across Florida’s political landscape. He has received endorsements from U.S. Representative Byron Donalds, Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis, and other influential leaders. These endorsements underscore his reputation as a candidate who understands the needs and values of Lee County residents.

Mulicka is running for the District 3 seat that Commissioner Ray Sandelli is vacating. Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Sandelli after his predecessor died in office, but he has decided to step down after one full term. Mulicka is prepared to step into this role with his strong business and community service background and hit the ground running after the Lee County Election.

Mulicka’s Platform and Priorities

1. Hurricane Recovery: As Lee County recovers from Hurricane Ian, Mulicka brings two decades of marine construction experience, prioritizes rebuilding efforts, and commits to removing government roadblocks to recovery.
2. Environmental Preservation: He is committed to preserving Lee County’s waterways and natural resources, working with state and federal agencies to ensure sustainable development.
3. Infrastructure Improvement: Mulicka plans to address traffic congestion and infrastructure needs to accommodate growth in Lee County.
4. Business Support: With his background in business, Mulicka supports policies that promote economic growth and protect local businesses.
5. Affordable Housing: He advocates for partnerships to create affordable housing for working-class families in Lee County.

Mulicka expressed his dedication to Lee County: “My goal is to enhance our community’s quality of life and ensure Lee County remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”

Matthew Thornton: A Confusing Campaign and Controversial Record

Matthew Thornton, 62, is a newcomer to Lee County politics but has a background in construction and government contracts. His campaign is controversy-laden, with questions about his voting record and attacks on Mulicka’s family.

Thornton claims to be a direct descendant of a Declaration of Independence signer, but his campaign has struggled to gain traction amid questions about his residency and voting history.

In 2020, Thornton voted in both in California and Florida, a federal offense. He claims that his California signature was forged, stating, “I’m a victim of voter fraud.”

The assistant registrar of Contra Costa County, Helen Nolan, disagreed, affirming the authenticity of the 2020 signature.

Thornton’s inability to clarify his voting record has raised serious doubts about his credibility. This confusion, coupled with his lack of clear policy goals, has left voters questioning his suitability for the role of Lee County Commissioner.

Thornton’s Platform and Missteps

1. Smart Growth and Development: Thornton advocates addressing infrastructure, transportation, and workforce housing to accommodate growth while preserving the area’s character.
2. Traffic Reduction: He proposes redesigning and expanding infrastructure to support the growing population and alleviate traffic congestion.
3. Water Management: Thornton emphasizes ensuring clean drinking water and managing stormwater runoff.
4. Environmental Conservation: He supports balancing development with conservation efforts to protect natural habitats.

Thornton’s platform is cosmetically sound. After all, who doesn’t like reduced traffic or clean drinking water? However, when subjected to even the most cursory scrutiny, Thornton’s aspirational goals lack concrete details.

Stated priorities aside, negative attacks on Mulicka and his family overshadow Thornton’s campaign. Thornton broke Ronald Reagan’s “Eleventh Commandment”: Never speak ill of another Republican by targeting Mulicka’s greatest asset: his family.

“Thornton outright said that David Mulicka’s relationship with his wife and father-in-law were political detriments. How do you attack someone’s family for public service?” a prominent local Republican Party official said under conditions of anonymity.

David Mulicka’s wife, Jenna Persons-Mulicka, is a State Representative, and his father-in-law, Armor Persons, serves on the Lee County School Board.

“Every constituent I speak to says they want answers and results. Having a family in public service is a great asset because it is much easier to get the job done quickly,” Mulicka said.

Thornton’s Attack on Mulicka: A Misguided Strategy

Thornton’s decision to attack Mulicka negatively has backfired, alienating potential supporters and drawing criticism from within the Republican Party. His attacks on Mulicka’s family, who have strong ties and a track record of service in Lee County, have only reinforced doubts about his campaign’s integrity.

Mulicka wouldn’t dignify the dirty politics, saying, “I’m running for the County Commission because of my deep-rooted passion for Lee County and my extensive business experience. I won’t be distracted by baseless attacks.”

Thornton’s negative approach has rendered questionable his motivations and commitment to Republican values.

Maybe Matthew Thornton is a good man. Alfie Oakes seems to think so. Thornton supports President Trump…at least now, from a Florida ballot.

But there are too many questions this time out. His lack of support from significant figures in Florida politics further undermines his credibility as a candidate.

Comparing Mulicka and Thornton: A Clear Choice for Lee County

Mulicka’s Proven Track Record

• Community Engagement: Mulicka’s deep ties to Lee County and commitment to serving the community make him a candidate who understands local needs and priorities.
• Endorsements: Mulicka’s endorsements from key figures in Florida politics demonstrate his strong support and credibility.
• Business Acumen: His background in business and construction equips him with the skills needed to address Lee County’s challenges.

Thornton’s Questionable Record

• Voting Controversy: Thornton’s confusion over his voting record raises serious questions about his reliability and trustworthiness.
• Negative Campaigning: His attacks on Mulicka and his family violate the principles of Republican unity and have alienated potential supporters.
• Lack of Support: Thornton’s lack of endorsements from prominent political figures in Florida reflects a lack of confidence in his candidacy.

Conclusion: David Mulicka Stands Ready to Serve Lee County

In the Lee County’s District 3 seat race, David Mulicka emerges as the clear choice for voters. His deep roots in the community, proven track record of service, and strong support from influential figures make him the candidate best suited to represent Lee County.

Mulicka stands ready, willing, and able to serve Lee County and hit the ground running on Day 1. Thornton, on the other hand, faces too many questions about his record and motivations. Lee County cannot afford to have a potential “closet California liberal” pull the wool over the voters’ eyes when a community man like David Mulicka is prepared to lead.

As the August 20 primary election approaches, Lee County voters can choose a candidate who embodies the values and principles most matter to them. David Mulicka’s commitment to Lee County and his vision for the future make him the right choice for District 3.