Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan Launches Re-Election Bid

Incumbent mayor seeks second term in 2026 municipal elections.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 5:44pm

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A dimly lit office with a large window overlooking the Jacksonville skyline at dusk, capturing the contemplative mood of a political leader considering their next steps.Mayor Deegan's re-election announcement comes as Jacksonville grapples with key issues like economic growth and public safety.Today in Jacksonville

Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan has officially announced her campaign for re-election in the 2026 mayoral race. Deegan, who has served as the city's mayor since 2023, is touting her record on economic development, infrastructure improvements, and public safety initiatives during her first term.

Why it matters

As a major city in Florida, Jacksonville's mayoral election will be closely watched, with Deegan's campaign seen as a test of her leadership and the city's political direction. The race could also have implications for state and national politics, given Jacksonville's status as a bellwether for the region.

The details

In a video announcement, Deegan highlighted her administration's efforts to attract new businesses, upgrade the city's aging roads and bridges, and work with law enforcement to reduce crime rates. She pledged to build on that progress if given a second term as mayor.

  • Mayor Deegan first took office in January 2023.
  • The 2026 Jacksonville mayoral election is scheduled for November 4, 2026.

The players

Donna Deegan

The incumbent mayor of Jacksonville, Florida, who is seeking re-election in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“I'm proud of what we've accomplished together over the past three years, but there's still more work to be done. That's why I'm running for re-election - to keep moving Jacksonville forward.”

— Donna Deegan, Mayor of Jacksonville

What’s next

The 2026 Jacksonville mayoral election will take place on November 4, 2026. Deegan is expected to face challengers in the Democratic primary and general election, though no other candidates have officially declared their intentions to run.

The takeaway

Mayor Deegan's re-election bid will be a closely watched race, as she seeks to build on her first-term accomplishments and solidify Jacksonville's status as a growing, prosperous city in Florida. The outcome could have broader political implications, both for the state and the nation.