As of yesterday afternoon, despite her suspension and ongoing legal challenges, former Orlando City Commissioner Regina Hill has officially filed to run for reelection in District 5. Hill was arrested in March 2024 on charges including elderly exploitation and fraud, leading to her suspension by Governor Ron DeSantis in April 2024.
“After much reflection, prayer, and supplication in response to the enthusiastic requests of many community members, I’ve decided on this day, the beginning of Lent, to submit my paperwork to officially run for reelection for office as the commissioner of District 5, to continue serving my beloved District 5! It is official. Thank you all for your unwavering support, and I look forward to continuing the transformative work that has been started and the divine purpose that God has entrusted me to fulfill.”
– REGINA HILL, FORMER DISTRICT 5 COMMISSIONER
Hill, who has represented District 5 since 2014, is facing legal scrutiny following allegations of exploiting a 96-year-old woman in her district. The charges include exploitation of an elderly person, scheme to defraud, fraudulent use of personal identification, and mortgage fraud exceeding $100,000. She has pleaded not guilty.
In response to her suspension, the city scheduled a special election on May 21, 2024, to fill the District 5 seat. Nine candidates participated in the election, with Shaniqua Rose emerging victorious. Rose currently serves as the District 5 commissioner, and she has also filed for re-election.
We spoke with a Public Information Officer at the City of Orlando, who informed us that assuming she meets other qualification requirements, they are not aware of anything that would preclude her from running in the next District 5 election, which is scheduled for November of this year.
As Hill’s legal proceedings continue, her candidacy adds a complex layer to the upcoming election. Voters in District 5 will need to weigh her past contributions against the ongoing allegations as they decide who is best suited to represent their interests.
Hill’s trial has been delayed twice and is currently set for May 12. If she is found innocent, she would be allowed to reassume her seat. If she is found guilty and convicted, she is facing time in prison. If the trial is delayed again, and she wins the seat while still awaiting a court decision, the governor could step in and suspend her again while the court case is decided.
Other seats on the ballot this winter are Districts 1 and 3.
Well, I’ve said this elsewhere so I’ll repeat it here. Not that I approve (which has no meaning what so ever) but given who is in the white house, why shouldn’t she give it a go?