A Campaign Built One Conversation at a Time
CAMPAIGN TRAIL UPDATE
A Campaign Built
One Conversation at a Time
A reflection on the people, conversations, and grassroots support powering this campaign for Florida House District 98.
BY KEITH ABEL | DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE | AUGUST 17, 2026
Over the course of this campaign, I have had the privilege of meeting residents throughout District 98 — in neighborhoods, senior communities, at local businesses and community events, and outside polling locations.
I have listened to homeowners, renters, veterans, seniors, educators, parents, working families, and small-business owners. Every conversation has reminded me why I entered this race: people want a representative who will be present, listen to their concerns, and deliver real results.
This campaign has never been about me alone. It has been about the people of District 98 and the future we can build together.
Listening Before Leading
I did not enter this race believing that one person has all the answers. Effective leadership begins by listening to the people who experience these challenges every day.
Residents have shared their concerns about rising home insurance costs, affordable housing, public education, support for seniors and veterans, economic opportunities, and helping local small businesses grow and thrive.
But I have also heard something deeper: people want to know that their voices matter. They want a representative who will remain visible after the election, communicate honestly, and carry their concerns directly to Tallahassee.
When I speak with someone in our community, I do not simply see another voter. I see a neighbor whose experience should help shape the decisions made on behalf of our district.
“The way I campaign is the way I will serve: visible, accessible, and accountable.”
A Grassroots Campaign Powered by People
The most inspiring part of this journey has been watching people step forward to help. Volunteers have stood at polling locations in the Florida heat, made telephone calls, shared campaign information, displayed signs, encouraged their families and friends to vote, and offered words of support when they were needed most.
Get Abelforflorida’s stories in your inbox
Join Medium for free to get updates from this writer.
Some people have given several hours. Others have given only a few minutes. Every contribution has mattered.
Because of that support, our campaign is entering Election Day with energy, determination, and growing momentum. We may be a grassroots campaign, but we are powered by people who believe District 98 deserves strong, accessible, and accountable representation.
To every volunteer, supporter, contributor, voter, friend, and family member who has been part of this journey: thank you. You have helped carry this campaign forward, and I am deeply grateful.
The Way I Campaign Is the Way I Will Serve
During my 30 years of service in the United States Army, I learned that leadership requires service, responsibility, and the willingness to show up when people are counting on you.
I have spent this campaign in our communities — listening directly to residents, answering questions, and remaining focused on the issues affecting everyday life. That is how I intend to serve as State Representative: visible in the district, accessible to residents, accountable for my decisions, and committed to bringing state resources and opportunities back home.
Election Day is not the end of that commitment. It is the beginning.
Tomorrow, Let Your Voice Be Heard
Tomorrow, Tuesday, August 18, 2026, the people of District 98 will decide who they trust to represent them in the Florida House of Representatives.
I am proud of the campaign we have built, proud of the people standing with us, and confident about what we can accomplish together. If you have already voted for me, thank you for placing your trust in my leadership. If you have not yet voted, I humbly ask you to cast your ballot for Keith Abel for State Representative, District 98.
Please verify your assigned Election Day polling location before leaving home. If you are in line by 7:00 p.m., remain in line — you are still entitled to vote.
ELECTION DAY | TUESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2026
POLLS OPEN 7:00 A.M. — 7:00 P.M.
VOTE KEITH ABEL | DEMOCRAT | FLORIDA STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 98
VETERAN — FIGHTING FOR YOU | TOGETHER WE ARE ABEL
Learn more at www.abelforflorida.com
