Editor’s note: After many contact attempts through email, phone call and text, OCN did not receive a response from Bankson.
Age: 62
Email address: dougbanksoncampaign@electioneeringconsulting.com
Registered political party: Republican
Where he lives: Apopka
Where he works: Founder and Senior Pastor of Victory Church World Outreach Center in Apopka, Florida
Prior work experience: Youth pastor for Cornerstone World Outreach located in Sioux City, Iowa
Prior political experience: Elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2022, reelected subsequently
The platform he’s running on: According to his website, his platform includes addressing the rising costs of living, securing educational opportunities for all children equally, attracting the best and the brightest through economic development, guarding our local environment, supporting first responders and protecting the rights of parents to raise their children according to their conscience.
Why he is running: According to Bankson’s “Why I’m running” page on his website, he is running for re-election because his life has been defined by service, leadership and responsibility. Motivated by concern for Florida’s future and the well-being of the next generation, his website says he believes families are facing rising costs, housing struggles, government overreach and growing threats to parental rights. He sees this moment as an opportunity to restore common sense, fiscal responsibility and a government that truly serves the people. Above all, he is running to protect Florida’s children and continue being a strong voice for freedom and community values in Tallahassee.
Summary of campaign finance report: Raised a total of $31,042.05 and spent a total of $7,544.36
Summary of sponsored bills and votes, via BillTrack50
Endorsements:
Fraternal Order of Police
Veterans for America First
Florida Family Action
Florida Realtors
Central Florida Hospitality and Lodging Association
West Orange Political Alliance
Stand for Health Freedom
Conservative Ministers of Orange County
Christian Patriots of Central Florida
Personhood Florida – ProLife PAC
Republican Liberty Caucus Florida
Florida Republican Assembly Orange County
Link to their website: Doug Bankson
Fun fact about the candidate: According to the about me page on his website, he is an accomplished singer/songwriter as well as a published author and an instrument-rated pilot.