Jerod Gross re-elected for DeSoto County Commission

ARCADIA — Incumbent DeSoto County Commissioner Jerod Gross defeated opponent Michael Allbritton, 1,741-1,592, in the race for the District 1 seat.

Gross, of Arcadia, was appointed to the board by Gov. Ron DeSantis to replace Commissioner Juril “Buddy” Mansfield, who died in 2020.

Gross was appointed in 2021 and was re-elected in 2022.

Gross is general manager and chief operating officer of Island Grove Ag Products. He has also been the owner and managing partner of Down South Blues Corp., a family-run blueberry farm.

Family, friends and supporters gave Gross hugs and handshakes when the results were announced. Gross said he was humbled by the support of the county.

"I thank them for getting out to vote," Gross said. "It was a poor turnout, but I am thankful for the support."

Gross said he's going to narrow in on the county's infrastructure during his re-election.

"Focusing on our infrastructure and development in our county by putting it in the right place," Gross said. "That benefits the county the most."

Allbritton was born and raised in Arcadia and is a watermelon farmer. He ran in 2022 against Gross and lost. On Election Day, he was traveling all over the county, trying to make sure people were staying hydrated in the heat.

"It's been a very busy day, and I really haven't stayed in one spot for long," Allbritton said. "I've been going out and making sure everyone has water."