On the Ballot: Mark Lightner, Candidate for Florida House District 32

Mark Lightner was born and raised in Brevard County and attends St. John the Evangelist Catholic Community in Viera. He and his wife, Karina, are raising their two children on the Space Coast. After graduating from the University of North Florida, Mark began his career in the heavy equipment and transportation industry. Today, he sells transporters—the giant crawlers that move rockets at the Cape, naval ships in shipyards, and "just about anything else that is ridiculously heavy."

Why are you running for Florida House District 32?

Having children really changes you. One way it changed me was that it made me think much more seriously about the future and about who is representing that future.

I quickly realized that when it comes to politics, we often win only half the battle. In my opinion, the first half is electing Republicans. The second half is electing Republicans who have integrity, strong morals, and who are truly walking the walk rather than just talking the talk.

Ultimately, the younger generation of conservatives must start stepping up if we want to preserve the values and principles that have helped make Florida successful. I am running because I believe our children deserve leaders who are invested in the future they will inherit.

What does it mean to you to be a Brevard resident?

Everything. Brevard is my home. I was born here, went to school here, worked my first job here, and now I am raising my own family here. I grew up fishing the Indian River Lagoon, swimming at Wickham Park (when you used to be able to), and enjoying our beaches. Aside from a couple of years away during college, I have spent my entire life in this community.

I knew before I ever left for college that Brevard was where I wanted to build my life. Every time I travel somewhere new, I find myself thinking, “This place is nice, but it isn’t Brevard.” There is something special about this community, and I want to do my part to protect it for future generations.

What is the top issue driving your campaign, and what can voters expect you to do about it?

Affordability. Five years ago, I graduated from college and got married. In those five short years, it feels as though the cost of living and housing has nearly doubled. Every Floridian is feeling that pressure.

Florida must put Floridians first. Not corporations, not special interests, and not private equity firms. Floridians.

Voters can expect me to fight for policies that make it easier to afford a home, raise a family, and build a future in our state. We must continue identifying and repealing laws and regulations that stand in the way of prosperity while ensuring government remains accountable to the people it serves.

What is one misconception people may have about you or your platform?

I have knocked on thousands of doors during this campaign, and the most common question I get is, “How old are you?” The initial misconception is that I might be too young. My response is usually, “I am young, but I am established.”

Throughout history, young people have stepped up when their communities needed them. Was Abraham Lincoln too young when he was elected to state office at 25? Was David too young when he defeated Goliath?

The next generation will inherit the future that is being shaped today. I believe younger conservatives need to become more involved in government, not less.

How has your Christian faith shaped your life, and how can voters expect it to influence your approach to public office?

While door-knocking, a Christian gentleman asked me a question that has stuck with me ever since. He said, “When your life is coming to a close, and you are tying a bow on it, what is the one thing you want to know that you accomplished?” I sat there for about a minute thinking. My first thoughts were, “For my kids to be proud of their dad,” or “To be a great husband.” But ultimately, I landed on my answer: “To know that I lived out the will of God to the best of my ability.”

That is what I strive for every day. My faith teaches me that leadership is service, that integrity matters, and that every person is made in the image of God and deserves dignity and respect. Voters can expect me to approach public office with humility, conviction, and a commitment to doing what is right, even when it is difficult.

Readers can learn more, contact the campaign, or support Mark Lightner at VoteLightner.com

— Christians of Brevard is a multi-church initiative that seeks to amplify the voices of local churches and ministries for the purpose of encouraging the local body of Christ and advancing the Kingdom of God. Join our Facebook community @ChristiansOfBrevard