Mark Bunker launches new campaign to take on Scientology in Clearwater

Veteran activist seeks city council seat as Scientology aims to expand its presence in the Florida town

Mar. 12, 2026 at 6:45pm

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Mark Bunker, a longtime critic of the Church of Scientology, has launched a new campaign for a seat on the Clearwater City Council. Bunker, known as the "Wise Beard Man," is running at a time when Scientology leader David Miscavige is trying to turn the town into the religion's "Vatican." Bunker's campaign launch video outlines his plans to challenge Scientology's growing influence in the community.

Why it matters

Clearwater has long been a battleground between the city's residents and the Church of Scientology, which has its spiritual headquarters there. Bunker's campaign represents a renewed effort to counter Scientology's efforts to expand its footprint and control in the city.

The details

In his campaign launch video, Bunker vows to "take on Scientology" and "protect the people of Clearwater." He cites Scientology's construction of a massive new training and counseling center in the city's downtown as a key issue. Bunker has been a vocal critic of Scientology for decades, using his online platform to expose the church's alleged abuses and efforts to influence local politics.

  • Bunker launched his campaign video on March 12, 2026.
  • Scientology has been working to expand its presence in Clearwater for years, with construction on the new downtown facility beginning in the early 2000s.

The players

Mark Bunker

A longtime critic of the Church of Scientology who is running for a seat on the Clearwater City Council.

David Miscavige

The leader of the Church of Scientology who is seeking to turn Clearwater into the religion's "Vatican."

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

Bunker's campaign will continue leading up to the Clearwater city council election, where he will face off against Scientology's efforts to maintain its influence in the community.

The takeaway

Bunker's campaign represents a renewed effort by local residents to challenge Scientology's growing control over Clearwater, Florida, which has long been a battleground between the church and the community.