Mariano wins the Pasco County Commission’s District 5 seat over two challengers

NEW PORT RICHEY — Republican Jack Mariano has won a fifth term as Pasco County’s District 5 commissioner, beating out opponents Brandi Geoit, a Democrat, and Victor Rodriguez, who has no party affiliation.

Mariano, 60, has been a commissioner since 2004. He is a Massachusetts native who came to Florida in 1991. He works in insurance sales and has a bachelor’s degree in economics.

Mariano ran on a record of responsive constituent service, dealing with storm water and flooding problems, and encouraging economic development and creating jobs.

Pointing to his economic education and sales experience, Mariano pitched himself as having the right background to help the county make good business decisions. He also pushed for ending the mandatory mask order, advocating instead for a recommendation that would allow for more personal responsibility and freedom.

Geoit, 44, is a native of Michigan who came to Pasco County 11 years ago. She worked as a social worker and ran unsuccessfully for the District 4 commission seat two years ago. She has a bachelor’s degree in family studies.

Her platform focused on encouraging the county to address homelessness, substance abuse and poverty. She was also critical of Mariano’s push to end the countywide mask order and simply suggest mask wearing.

Beyond social issues, Geoit also highlighted flooding and other problems with Pasco’s infrastructure, as well as water-quality and sea-rise concerns. She said she considers herself an advocate for people, not corporate interests.

Rodriguez is a 33-year-old Brooklyn native who came to Florida 29 years ago. He is a regional operations director for a heating and air conditioning company and studied criminal justice for several semesters.

He said he decided to run because Pasco County needs leaders and he is not owned by political action committees, developers or businesses. He advocated for more transparency from county government.

The District 5 commission seat is based in northwest Pasco. The term is for four years and the salary is $94,180.

Tampa Bay Times elections coverage

FLORIDA’S ELECTION NIGHT — AND BEYOND: Here’s what you need to know.

DECLARING WINNERS: How the Associated Press makes election calls, a Q&A

WHAT TO WATCH: What’s on TV for election night, from news to comedian commentators

We’re working hard to bring you the latest news on the elections in Florida. This effort takes a lot of resources to gather and update. If you haven’t already subscribed, please consider buying a print or digital subscription. Or click here to make a donation to the Tampa Bay Times Journalism Fund.