Sam Wilson runs for Clearwater Council Seat 5

Sam Wilson is running for Clearwater City Council Seat 5 in the Nov. 3 nonpartisan runoff election. He faces Mark Bunker in the nonpartisan runoff, according to BallotReady election data. Wilson is certified for the ballot.

Wilson, who grew up splitting time between Clearwater and Safety Harbor after his family moved to Pinellas County, said on his campaign website that he attended Calvary Christian High School. Wilson said he is a member of Calvary Christian Church. He met and married his wife, Kalea, in the area, Wilson said.

Candidate information

Office sought: Clearwater City Council, Seat 5
Election: Nov. 3, 2026, Florida General Election (nonpartisan runoff)
Party: Nonpartisan
Education: Bachelor's degree in political science, Southeastern University (2022)
Opponent: Mark Bunker (Nonpartisan)

Experience and public service

Wilson worked as a staffer and scheduler for Anna Paulina Luna's 2022 congressional campaign, according to BallotReady profile data. He then served as a district field and legislative coordinator in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2023 to 2024 and has been a district director since 2024, according to BallotReady.

Wilson said on his campaign website that he serves as a board member of the Clearwater Housing Authority. He also said he has volunteered with the Cajun Navy and the Sheriff's Youth Ranch.

On the issues

Wilson's policy positions, as stated on his campaign website:

Taxes and affordability: Wilson said he would roll back the millage rate to lower tax bills for families, seniors on fixed incomes, veterans and first-time buyers.

Downtown development: Wilson said he would work to activate vacant properties and attract small businesses to bring downtown back to life, with the city and elected officials leading the discussion.

Public safety: Wilson said he would work with local, county and federal law enforcement to keep dangerous criminals off the streets while maintaining prevention and rapid response efforts.

Storm resilience: Wilson said he would lead Clearwater's recovery from hurricanes while strengthening resilience for future storms and protecting the tourism economy.

Government accountability: Wilson said his leadership would restore trust, strengthen accountability and ensure City Hall reflects the will of the people.