Some officials won new terms Friday when no one filed to run against them. Who's on that list?
State Attorney Bill Gladson and Public Defender Mike Graves are among those who were automatically re-elected on Friday when they did not draw any opponents by the time the qualifying period ended.
With no opposition, Gladson will have another four-year term as state attorney. Gladson first ran unopposed four years ago. Before he was elected, Gladson was an assistant state attorney for many years.
Anyone wanting to run against Gladson and Graves had until noon Friday to file paperwork. The qualifying period was April 22-26.
"It has been an absolute honor and privilege to serve the people of the Fifth Judicial Circuit for the last four years. Public safety has always been our primary mission. Together, with the support of the community, we will continue to seek justice on behalf of the citizens we serve," Gladson said.
Gladson's office covers five counties: Marion, Citrus, Lake, Hernando and Sumter. The population is roughly 1.3 million. In the five counties there are 18 police departments and five sheriff's offices.
Gladson's office has successfully prosecuted several high-profile cases during his tenure. They include Michael Wayne Jones, who now sits on death row for the brutal murder of his wife and their four children; and the recent conviction of self-described sovereign citizen Neely Rayne Pesognellie Petrie Blanchard for first-degree murder.
Graves said: "I'm so pleased to serve again." The longtime defense attorney said his office is returning to full staff and he's "looking forward to working with everyone."
Graves can be seen in the courtroom and does carry a caseload similar to those of his assistant public defenders.
"I want to continue to serve the people as best as we can," he said.
The four-term incumbent, who has been unopposed the last three times, said while he enjoys being in the courtroom, he plans to "slow down for a little while."
Several other elected officials were returned to office without opposition
Gladson and Graves were not the only ones celebrating on Friday.
Marion County-based Circuit Judges Peter Brigham, Steven Rogers and Jennifer Bass had no challengers and were automatically re-elected to new terms.
Likewise, County Judges Tommy Thompson and Robert Landt are also returning to the bench. No one filed to run against them.
"I'm very happy I will be able to renew my commitment to the citizens of Marion County," said Landt, who has served for 11 1/2 years.
Contact Austin L. Miller at austin.miller@starbanner.com
This article originally appeared on Ocala Star-Banner: Who was automatically re-elected on Friday when qualifying period ended?
