Florida House District 26 — covering parts of Leesburg, Tavares, Lisbon, Eustis, Mount Dora and Fruitland Park in Lake County — will see a contested race in the November 3 general election. Democratic candidate Robyn Elaine Lawrence sat down with WESH 2 anchor Michelle Imperato for the station’s Commitment 2026 interview series to explain her platform and answer voter questions.
Key priorities highlighted in the interview
Lawrence said her top priority is affordability, focusing on two areas that affect everyday families: healthcare and housing. She argued that rising medical costs and limited insurance options place a heavy burden on working parents, and she pledged to support legislation that expands access to affordable coverage while protecting patient choice.
On the housing front, Lawrence warned that escalating home prices and rental rates are pushing families out of the communities they love. She advocated for policies that increase the supply of affordable housing units, streamline permitting for new developments, and protect first‑time homebuyers through tax incentives.
Technology and privacy concerns
The candidate also addressed emerging technology issues that have surfaced in Lake County. She expressed cautious support for data center projects that bring jobs and tax revenue, but emphasized the need for strict oversight to ensure that local residents’ privacy and environmental quality are not compromised.
Lawrence raised questions about the use of “flock cameras” — surveillance devices intended for wildlife monitoring that have raised privacy concerns among some homeowners. She called for clear guidelines that balance public safety and property rights, echoing the broader community desire for responsible technology deployment.
Opposition and campaign dynamics
Incumbent Republican Nan Cobb declined to participate in the WESH 2 debate invitation, leaving Lawrence as the sole voice in the televised interview. Despite the lack of a direct rebuttal, Lawrence remained focused on presenting her vision for the district and encouraging voters to consider the long‑term impact of policy choices on families.
Lawrence’s campaign emphasizes grassroots outreach, with volunteers knocking on doors, hosting town‑hall meetings, and leveraging social media to reach younger voters. She urged constituents to register early, attend upcoming candidate forums, and review the full debate recordings available on the station’s website.
What voters should know
The upcoming election will determine who represents District 26 in the Florida House of Representatives. Voters can watch the complete interview and other candidate debates at WESH.com or catch edited segments during local newscasts. Both candidates will appear on the ballot on November 3, and the race is expected to be closely watched as an indicator of broader political trends in Central Florida.
For more information on candidate filings, polling locations, and voter registration deadlines, residents are encouraged to visit the Lake County Supervisor of Elections website.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
