Charles Burkett

Four-term Mayor of Surfside, Florida. Real estate executive and founder of the Burkett Companies. Led Surfside through the Champlain Towers South collapse in 2021 gaining national recognition. Announced his candidacy for Florida Governor in March 2025. Campaign priorities include enforcing immigration laws, cutting taxes, limiting gambling, restricting housing development until public transportation is expanded, and environmental stewardship. Running as a policy-focused candidate without major party backing.

The Governor of Florida is the chief executive of the state government. Powers include signing or vetoing legislation passed by the Florida Legislature, appointing cabinet members and judges, commanding the Florida National Guard, issuing executive orders, and managing the state budget. The Governor serves a four-year term and is limited to two consecutive terms under the Florida Constitution. Florida's Governor oversees one of the nation's largest state economies and a population of over 22 million residents.