Volusia Charter Review Applicant Says Johansson Voted Against Him Improperly

Volusia County Councilman Jake Johansson is being accused of improperly voting against an applicant for the Charter Review Committee, on the basis that the applicant is a political opponent of his. Both Johansson and applicant Jason Voelz are running for the Florida state Senate in District 8 next year. The Daytona Beach News-Journal first reported on the gripe, including direct quotations from Voelz expressing his displeasure. “He should have just stepped aside and said, ‘I’m not participating in that one,'” Voelz reportedly said. “The involvement of a political opponent in the nomination process, coupled with public statements indicating political motivations, raises serious questions about adherence to these ethical standards [in Florida law],” Voelz continued in a letter to the County Council and to some local media. The vote took place on Tuesday, after Voelz was nominated by County Council Chair Jeff Brower. He also received the support of Troy Kent, the Councilman representing District 4. Brower himself posted words of support on Voelz’s campaign Facebook page on Wednesday. “They are all supporting the development same candidate,” he wrote. “Just like they did against me. Go get the same results!” According to the most recent filings, Johansson has received financial contributions from several of his County Council colleagues for his state legislature bid. Don Dempsey (District 1) has contributed $1,000 via his law office. Matt Reinhart (District 2) has given $150. Danny Robins (District 3) has contributed $50 (plus another $25 from a Beverly Robins at the same address). Troy Kent (District 4) has given $100 to Johansson, but did vote in favor of Voelz’s appointment. Four candidates, all Republicans, have filed to run in the 2026 Florida Senate election in District 8: Johansson, Volez, Heather Bendl, and Elizabeth Fetterhoff.