Chadd Charland

Chadd Charland earned a bachelor's degree from Auburn University in 1997. His career experience includes working as a writer.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I have lived in Fernandina Beach since 2012. I have never run for office previously, but felt compelled to give voters a choice after learning the book-banning, Confederate monument defending, pro-Data Center incumbent was running unopposed.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I will fight data centers state wide as I have done in Nassau County, helping lead citizens in pressuring the County to enact a data center moratorium.I will challenge developers in an effort to slow sprawl and protect rural and natural Florida.I will seek to reestablish Home Rule in Florida, recognizing local municipalities are generally best positioned to make decisions affecting their residents.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Equity, the environment and public education. I support equal voting rights for all citizens. I oppose gerrymandering. I support a woman's right to bodily autonomy. I am passionate about conservation land funding and protecting rural, natural, and wild Florida. I support clean water and clean energy initiatives. I believe public funding should be dedicated to public schools exclusively and oppose the system of private school vouchers in Florida.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Honesty and being willing to fight for constituents.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Help the people of my district and protect our natural resources.

What legacy would you like to leave?

Keeping large scale data centers out of Florida.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I worked at a gun club for several summers in middle and high school

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Watching the erosion of rights and democracy in Florida and nation wide.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

Independent.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Slowing sprawl, overdevelopment, and the runaway influence of corporate money and power over our elected officials.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

In some areas, but not with core beliefs.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Florida AFL-CIO

Florida Education Association, the public teachers' union.

Jacksonville chapter National Organization for Women

Unified Nassau

What was the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember?

The Space Shuttle Challenger explosion.