Clearwater Voters Face Historic Runoff

Clearwater voters will cast ballots this month in a contest that follows a new rule requiring a majority to win office. The runoff pits Sam Wilson, 26, against Mark Bunker, 70. Wilson serves as district director for U.S. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna. Bunker, a former council member, served one term and lost re-election in 2024.

The city changed its charter in 2024 to mandate majority victories. Before that change, candidates could win with a plurality. Bunker won his seat in 2020 with less than 30% of the vote in a five-way race. His victory triggered the debate that led to the current runoff system.

In the August 18 primary for Seat 5, Wilson received nearly 49% of the vote. Bunker garnered 35%. Kevin R. T. Laughlin, a local business owner, finished third with 16%. The race remains nonpartisan, though Wilson identifies as a Republican and Bunker as a Democrat. Wilson has drawn support from local and state Republicans, including Mayor, state Rep. Berny Jacques, state Sen. Nick DiCeglie, and Rep. Luna.

The candidates disagree on the role of the Church of Scientology in downtown development. Bunker has criticized the church for more than two decades. He describes the Cleveland Street Alliance, a development group tied to the church, as a front. He claims the group uses deception to hide the church’s involvement in a $50 million movie theater project. Sarah Heller, a church spokesperson, called that allegation preposterous.

Wilson states he focuses on broader issues rather than a single cause. He acknowledges receiving campaign support from church members but argues they back his general approach to city management. He supports the entertainment venue, believing it will draw business regardless of ownership. He also cites affordability, government transparency, and hurricane resilience as key goals.

Fundraising numbers show a distinct gap. Wilson’s campaign reported nearly $61,000 in contributions. A separate political committee supporting him raised more than $34,000. Bunker has raised more than $12,000 without a supporting committee. His donors include individuals from Virginia, Hawaii, Texas, and Pennsylvania. Republican groups have paid for ads targeting Bunker’s party affiliation and past bankruptcy.

Wilson believes he was within 400 or 500 votes of securing a majority in the primary. He plans to work hard to cross that threshold in the runoff. Bunker said he sees tension and anger on the current council. He wants to bring a more reasonable approach to the chamber.