“A Lifelong Local”: Yonce Highlights District Ties in Challenge to Randy Fine.
Community members gathered at Petey’s Beer and Wine Garden in Palatka on Saturday to hear from Eric Yonce, a Democrat running to unseat Randy Fine in Florida’s 6th Congressional District.
The event began with a brief introduction and lighthearted questions, including Yonce’s favorite action movie (“Saving Private Ryan”), his favorite band (“Pearl Jam”), and whether he preferred Hillary Clinton or Bernie Sanders (“Bernie!”). The tone shifted as attendees moved into more substantive issues facing the district.
When asked about his stance on Florida law enforcement cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Yonce noted that Florida law requires local agencies to comply with ICE operations, with penalties for officers who fail to do so. He also condemned violence associated with enforcement operations and emphasized the need to abolish the current system.
Palatka Mayor Robbie Correa asked about efforts to secure federal funds that have been allocated to the district but not yet received. Yonce said that, if elected, he would prioritize advocating for the district in Washington to ensure it receives the resources it is entitled to.
Yonce also discussed having attended environmental conferences in order to better understand how to protect the 6th districts natural resources and improve existing infrastructure. In regards to the Rodman Dam Yonce stated “Remove the dam and reunite the rivers.”
For a more complete Q&A, click here
Perhaps the most pointed question of the evening was why voters should choose him over other candidates. Yonce emphasized his lifelong ties to Florida’s 6th District, noting that he was raised in Ocala and now lives in Ormond Beach. He contrasted his background with what he described as a history of the district being used as a political stepping stone by representatives whose ambitions extended beyond the community itself.
As a lifelong resident, Yonce said he understands the culture and history of the district and would work to preserve its character while advocating for its interests as the region continues to grow.
As the event concluded, Yonce encouraged attendees to remain engaged in the political process and to participate in the upcoming election, where voters will ultimately decide who will represent Florida’s 6th District in Congress.
