Kruse Files to Run for Seat Being Vacated by Benac
Posted
Staff Report
MANATEE COUNTY – Republican George Kruse, who had previously filed to challenge incumbent District 1 Republican Priscilla Trace in the party's primary, instead jumped into the District 7 race this week, following Commission Chair Betsy Benac's announcement that she would be dropping out of the race.
"Today I officially filed the paperwork to refocus my campaign on Manatee County Commission, District 7 (at-large)," wrote Kruse in an announcement issued on his campaign's Facebook page. "This countywide seat will allow for broader, more universal discussions on the issues being faced by all residents of our community and will allow for full utilization of my private sector background and experience in order to bring new ideas to our Board for the benefit of all residents of our County. I’m looking forward to a great race and I’m definitely looking forward to reaching out to everyone in Manatee County starting immediately."
In his initial announcement, Kruse said managing growth would be one of his primary focuses.
"Manatee County is growing, whether we want it to or not," said Kruse in a release announcing his candidacy. "How we manage that growth is the responsibility of our county commission. We need a board that focuses on the key issues facing residents like reducing traffic, keeping taxes low, protecting our beaches, waterways, and environment, and growing smarter."
Kruse began his career working on an affordable housing equity fund at Raymond James, which he says spawned a passion for both finance and studying ways to generate attainable housing for communities. Kruse's experience in this realm led to positions on the City of Bradenton's Affordable Housing Advisory Committee and the Chamber of Commerce's Attainable Housing Task Force.
"We can keep our taxes low and restructure our county budget so that we have the financial means to tackle problems like aging infrastructure, traffic congestion, and workforce housing. Focusing on these issues today is critical," said Kruse. "Putting in place long-term plans now, will make Manatee’s predicted growth more sustainable and help retain our community’s small-town feel."
Republican attorney Paul Finer had been the only other person in the race when Benac dropped out. However, former county administrator Ed Hunzeker also switched races upon Benac's departure. Barring additional changes, the three will compete in an open primary this August, as no Democrats or independents have yet to file for the race.
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