Mike Pedersen

Mike Pedersen was born in Long Beach, California. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1979 to 1999. He graduated from Miami Palmetto Senior High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from the United States Naval Academy in 1979. His career experience includes working as a military officer. He has been affiliated with the National Rifle Association, Military Officers of America Association, and Kiwanis Club of Cape Coral.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Mike Pedersen is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy (Class of 1979) where he was a 2-time Naval Academy Boxing Champion and was the Outstanding Boxer his senior year. Pedersen went on to serve 20 years as a U. S. Marine Corps Naval Flight Officer (NFO) in the F-4 Phantom and the F/A-18D Hornet. Mike was awarded 3 separate times for valor during Operation Desert Storm as a Forward Air Controller. Pedersen flew a total of 66 combat missions over Kuwait. He is a husband, father, grandfather, and proud 26-year resident of Cape Coral, Florida. Mike is an active member of the community -- coached youth boxing with the Cape Coral Police Department from 2000-2003, has been the Asst Wrestling Coach at Mariner High School from 2003 to present, and was a Naval Academy "Blue & Gold Officer" (Field Admissions Liaison Officer) for 20 years. In Aug 2024, Mike was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame (Florida Chapter) under the "Outstanding American" category. In May 2025, he was named Volunteer of the Year by the Lee County School District.

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 have been a long time Florida resident for the past 58 years, including the past 26 years in Cape Coral. Our children attended public school in the Lee County School District. I have boated in and fished our waterways.My 20 years of Marine Corps service included various leadership positions in aviation, operations, security, intelligence, and logistics. I was a graduate of the Navy's "TOP GUN" Fighter Weapons School in Dec 1983. From '92-'94, I was the Executive Officer (2nd in Command) of 250 Marines with 1st ANGLICO (Air and Naval Gunfire Liaison Company) at Camp Pendleton, CA. In that position, I logged 40 static-line parachute jumps.My platform is solid CONSERVATIVE with focus on: USA First, Powerful Modern and Potent Military second to none, Debt Reduction, Secure Borders, Secure Elections, Protect the 2nd Amendment, Protect the Unborn, and Protect & Develop our Youth.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Control spending, election integrity, immigration reform, and youth development.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

"What color is a Conservative" by former Oklahoma Congressman and football player J. C. Watts.

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

Integrity, honesty, energy, and genuine passion to represent constituents.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Honesty, Work Ethic, Dependability, Passion to Serve

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Assassination of President Kennedy. 2nd grade (7 years old).

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

10 years old. One full year. Local Pet Store. $1 / hour taking care of all the animals - feeding, cleaning cages, etc.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

Yes. Our Founding Forefathers got it right. The 2, 4, 6 concept was well thought out.

Tell us your favorite joke.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

See my official website: www.mikepedersenforcongress.com

What committees interest you?

Armed Services Committee, Health and Human Services

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Transparency and real accountability are ESSENTIAL to ensure and maintain public trust in our elected officials. It is important to require regular financial disclosures in order to avoid conflict of interests. Oversight committees and ethics review / enforcement are vital to keep public faith in OUR government.