DeSantis to Appoint Successor After Commissioner's Resignation

Special election set for November to fill Brevard County District 1 seat

Apr. 10, 2026 at 12:19am

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A serene, photorealistic painting of a county government building or political office space, with warm lighting and deep shadows creating a contemplative mood.The appointment and special election for Brevard County's District 1 seat will shape the future leadership and priorities of local government.Titusville Today

Governor Ron DeSantis will appoint a temporary replacement for Brevard County Commissioner Katie Delaney following her resignation from the District 1 seat, effective May 2. Because more than 28 months remain in Delaney's original term, the seat must also appear on the upcoming 2026 General Election ballot.

Why it matters

This appointment by DeSantis will serve as a bridge until the results of the 2026 election are certified, at which point the winner will hold the seat until the next election cycle. The District 1 seat covers the northern portion of Brevard County, including Titusville and Port St. John.

The details

Under Florida law, the governor is charged with filling vacancies on the Board of County Commissioners once a resignation is formally accepted. Supervisor of Elections Tim Bobanic announced the vacancy this week and noted that an election will be held later this year to determine who will serve the remainder of Delaney's term through November 2028.

  • Delaney's resignation is effective May 2, 2026.
  • The District 1 seat will be on the 2026 General Election ballot.
  • Candidate qualifying will be held from June 8-12, 2026.

The players

Ron DeSantis

The Governor of Florida, who will appoint a temporary replacement for the Brevard County Commissioner District 1 seat.

Katie Delaney

The outgoing Brevard County Commissioner for District 1, who is resigning to pursue an out-of-state opportunity.

Tim Bobanic

The Supervisor of Elections for Brevard County, who announced the vacancy and election timeline.

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What they’re saying

“The District 1 seat for the Brevard County Commission will be on the General Election ballot along with the District 2 and District 4 County Commission seats that have terms ending this year.”

— Tim Bobanic, Supervisor of Elections

What’s next

Candidates interested in running for the District 1 seat must qualify between noon on June 8 and noon on June 12, 2026.

The takeaway

This appointment and special election process highlights the importance of local government representation and the need for a smooth transition of power in Brevard County.