RASM Announces First Local Candidate Endorsements of the 2026 Election Cycle

Following a thorough candidate screening and interview process, the REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee is proud to announce its first local candidate endorsements for the 2026 election cycle.

RASM’s REALTOR® Political Action Committee (RPAC) and candidate endorsement efforts are focused on supporting leaders who understand the importance of private property rights, housing opportunities, economic growth, and policies that strengthen the communities REALTORS® serve every day.

For the 2026 Cycle, RASM Has Initially Endorsed the Following Candidates:

Manatee County Commission:

Amanda Ballard – District 2
Mike Rahn – District 4

Sarasota City Commission:

John Harshman – At-Large
Rob Rominiecki – At-Large

Candidates seeking RASM endorsement participate in a comprehensive review process that includes questionnaires, interviews, and discussions on key issues impacting the real estate industry and the broader community. Topics often include housing affordability, infrastructure, land use, economic development, property rights, and responsible growth.

These local endorsements are made in addition to the statewide endorsement efforts conducted by Florida REALTORS® and the congressional endorsement process led by the National Association of REALTORS®, ensuring REALTOR® advocacy remains active and engaged at every level of government.

As communities throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties continue to navigate growth, redevelopment, infrastructure demands, and housing challenges, local elected officials remain central to shaping the policies that impact homeowners, businesses, and the real estate industry alike.

RASM’s candidate endorsement process is ongoing, and the Association will continue conducting interviews and considering endorsements in several additional races in the coming months, including the Sarasota County Commission, additional Manatee County Commission races, and the City of Bradenton.

RASM encourages members to stay informed and engaged throughout the election cycle as REALTOR® advocacy continues to play a vital role in protecting the future of homeownership and private property rights across the region. Before you head to the polls or fill out your ballot, take a look at our endorsed candidate list located here.

Investing in Advocacy: Celebrating RASM's RPAC Hall of Fame Leaders

This month at the National Association of REALTORS® Legislative Meetings in Washington, D.C., two of RASM’s own, Denise Oyler and Julia Montei, will be inducted into the prestigious RPAC Hall of Fame, joining a distinguished group of REALTORS® recognized for their extraordinary commitment to advocacy and the protection of private property rights.

The RPAC Hall of Fame honors REALTORS® who have contributed at least $25,000 over their lifetimes to the REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC), demonstrating a long-term investment in protecting the real estate industry and promoting policies that support homeownership and property rights. Hall of Fame members are permanently recognized with an engraved plaque displayed at the National Association of REALTORS® headquarters in Washington, D.C., a lasting tribute to their commitment to advocacy at the highest level.

Their inductions add to RASM’s growing legacy of advocacy leadership alongside Hall of Fame members Mike Bruno, Barry Grooms, and Clark Toole, as well as Bill Furst, whose exceptional dedication has earned him the distinction of Double RPAC Hall of Fame Member.

RPAC plays a vital role in ensuring REALTORS® have a seat at the table on issues ranging from housing affordability and insurance reform to land use, infrastructure, and private property rights. These investments help strengthen the voice of the real estate industry at the local, state, and national levels.

RASM proudly congratulates Denise, Julia, Bill, Mike, Barry, and Clark for their leadership, investment, and continued dedication to advancing REALTOR® advocacy on behalf of property owners and communities throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties.