Flagler County: Grassroots Movement Emerges in Florida District 19 Race

Flagler County Florida District 19 Map.Photo byPalm Coast Local

Paul Renner Endorses 'WHO?' for Florida House District 19 while locals in Flagler are stumped.

As Florida’s District 19 State Representative, Paul Renner is nearing the end of his term, and the question on everyone’s mind in Palm Coast and Bunnell was: Who will be his successor? It seems that a new contender has emerged at the eleventh hour, prompting curiosity and discussion across social media in Palm Coast and Bunnell.

In an unexpected twist, Flagler County residents are expressing skepticism about Renner’s choice. They argue that he has overlooked local voices and instead opted for a candidate who looks good on paper but remains largely unknown to the community. This mysterious figure, dubbed “Paul Renner’s pick,” has not actively engaged with voters. No in-person forums, events, or door-knocking campaigns—just an appearance seemingly out of thin air.

In response, Flagler County, which encompasses Palm Coast, Bunnell, Flagler Beach, and Marineland and parts of St. Augustine, is voicing disappointment, confusion, and even shock. Social media is abuzz with expressions of outrage as residents seek a candidate who truly represents their interests.

Sam Greco, a Navy reservist and former judge advocate general, has emerged as a last minute, unknown contender. Renner’s endorsement of Greco for the Florida House District 19 seat has added weight to his campaign, possibly a sinking weight. Greco’s commitment to conservative values, pro-life stance, and support for the Second Amendment align with Renner’s vision, along with other candidates too. With more than $150,000 raised through his campaign and the First Coast Conservative Coalition, Greco aims to deliver talking points so far with quick research and hitting the key points listing within social media and reading media info.

While two other GOP candidates who had already mounted viable campaigns: Darryl Boyer, a former staffer of Renner and retired physician James St. George of St. Augustine. As of March 31, St. George had raised a huge amount for a House race, $389,000.

Boyer − who has also worked for House Rep. Webster Barnaby, R-Deltona, and campaigned for Sen. Corey Simon, R-Tallahassee − has raised nearly $50,000 and a native resident of Flagler County.

And yet another Republican is in the race, businessman and former lawyer Matthew Nellans, whose mailing address is Ormond Beach but lives in Flagler County. He had only raised $1,000 by the end of March.

While Renner’s choice may have surprised many, the community’s voice remains essential and it seems Flagler locals already have their favorites. As the election approaches, Flagler County residents will decide whether to embrace Renner’s endorsement or forge their own grassroots path.

Either way, the ghostly newcomer will need to step out from the shadows and engage with voters if he hopes to win Flagler's trust, support and vote.

Have you decided yet? Who is your choice and why?

This article is not an endorsement or paid ad.