KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Following reports regarding her qualification status for re-election in Florida House District 47, State Representative Paula Stark has issued a public letter to constituents and members of the community addressing the situation.
In the letter, Stark discusses the circumstances surrounding her campaign’s filing of required election documents, explains why she believes her campaign complied with state qualifying requirements, and outlines the steps being taken as the matter continues to be reviewed. She also reflects on her service in the Florida House, highlights accomplishments during her time in office, and reiterates her commitment to the residents of District 47.
The following statement was provided by Representative Stark and is published in its entirety.
Statement from State Representative Paula Stark: “My Commitment to District 47 Has Not Changed”
Over the past several days, I have been contacted by hundreds of constituents regarding the news that I was not going to be on the November Ballot. Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me regarding my candidacy. I understand the concern these reports have generated, and I believe the people of District 47 deserve a direct response from me.
First, I want to acknowledge the seriousness of the situation. As the candidate, responsibility ultimately rests with me. While my team and I are carefully reviewing the facts, procedures, and all legal options available under Florida law, I recognize that voters expect accountability, transparency, and professionalism from their elected officials. I take those expectations seriously and always will. We believe the facts support the outcome that we in fact did everything required by law and have the proof of that. At the time we were submitting the required documents to the Division of Elections counter, they were in the process of having security remove an individual that was causing disruption of the process and had backed up close to a dozen other candidates who were in line, to also submit their paperwork. Thus, the normal operation of the process appeared to be potentially disrupted, as they were trying to clear up the backlog of applicants. We believe this led to the confusion regarding my previously filed Form 6, which is the form that is in question. The previous day, my form had been filed electronically thru the Commission of Ethics portal, as required. We have the digitally accepted receipt of that form from the COE, which is available online for anyone to see.
At this time, we are working with the appropriate professionals to review all relevant matters that have been raised regarding qualifying procedures. I am committed to cooperating fully with any, and all lawful processes to be on the ballot and ensuring that the public receives accurate information. It is important that facts—not speculation, assumptions, or political spin—guide the conversation.
What I do not want lost in this discussion is the work we have accomplished together on behalf of our community. During my service in the Florida House, I have fought tirelessly for families, seniors, veterans, children, and small businesses throughout not just District 47, but all the citizens of the Great State of Florida. I have worked to advance legislation supporting autism services, maternal and infant health initiatives, affordable housing concerns (especially those living in mobile homes), constituent services, public safety, and infrastructure improvements that directly affect the lives of you, the people I represent. Those responsibilities remain my priority today.
I ask for patience as the legal process continues. We will provide additional information when appropriate but, when doing so will not interfere with legal or procedural reviews that may be underway. Until then, I remain focused on the work the people of District 47 elected me to perform.
I also understand that public trust is earned. That trust does not come from campaign slogans or political titles. It comes from showing up, listening, solving problems, and accepting responsibility when challenges arise. Regardless of what ultimately happens regarding election matters, my commitment to serving the people of District 47 remains unchanged.
To me, Public Service has always been about people—not positions. I remain grateful for the opportunity to serve my community and for the trust so many families have placed in me over the years.
Thank you for your continued support, prayers, and encouragement.
Sincerely,
State Representative Paula Stark
Florida House District 47
