Suwannee County Elections 2026

DISTRICT 2 CANDIDATE

Today, I am proud to announce my candidacy for Suwannee County Board of County Commissioners, District 2. As a lifelong resident of Suwannee County, I have dedicated my career to public service, and I am committed to working with our community to ensure a strong responsible, and united future for our county.

I am a 1983 graduate of Suwannee County High School, a U.S. Army Veteran, and an attendee of Florida Gateway Community College. For more than 30 years, I served in public safety-retiring as a Law Enforcement Captain with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, where I protected, secured, and defended the State of Florida's multi billion dollar agricultural industry, and was responsible for safeguarding consumers from fraud under Florida law and department's regulatory authority. My wife, Palizzia "Lise" Blue and I have raised our three children-Emaze, Emyrick, and Emaysa-here in Suwannee County, and our roots in the community run deep.

My experience working with federal, state, and local government agencies has prepared me to serve effectively as a county commissioner. I understand the responsibility of government to operate effectively, transparently, and with accountability to the people. Maintaining the public's trust is essential, and I am committed to ensuring that /suwannee County's government reflects the values and priorities of it's citizens.

For 15 years, I have served on Suwannee County Development Authority and currently serve as CoChairperson, supporting smart growth and economic development that improve quality of life for our residents. In 2012 I was honored to serve as CoChairperson of the City of Live Oak Review Board, representing my district and helping strengthen the foundation of our local government.

My service also extends deeply into our schools and community organizations. I have served as a Panel Member on Suwannee County District Educational Hour, helping inform and engage the public on key educational topics affecting our students and families. I am a Substitute Teacher, and Advisory Member for Suwannee County School District, and also belong to the Suwannee County Voters League. Additional I serve as CoChairperson of the Trustee Board at Sweet Hope Missionary Church  and have been involved with the African American Development Council, Inc., contributing to initiatives that uplift and support our community.

In 2017, I was recognized by Florida Public Safety Institute for my contributions to public service as part of the Recognizing the Role of African Americans Shaping Florida Today initiative, and was featured in a Fresh From Florida publication for my efforts in recruiting career professionals. In 2025, the Suwannee High School Girls Weightlifting Team Leadership Award was renamed in honor of my family's legacy of leadership, integrity, and community impact-an acknowledgment that deeply humbles me and strengthens my commitment to serve others.

I value fiscal responsibility and support public projects that enhance essential services as our county continues to grow. My Lifelong dedication to service, leadership, and community engagement has prepared me to step forward in a new capacity. I am running for County Commissioner because I believe in Suwannee County-it's people it's potential, and it's future.Ilook forward to earning your support and working together to strengthen our community for generations to come.

DISTRICT 2 CANDIDATE

My name is Walter "Shea" DeLoach and I am asking for your support as your next Suwannee County Commissioner for District 2. I am a lifelong Suwannee County resident, farm raised, and proud graduate of Suwannee High School. This community has shaped who I am, and belive it is important to give back by serving the people who have given me so much.

As a husband, father, and lifelong resident, I understand the values that make Suwannee County a special place to live, work, and raise a family. My children have attended our schools, and I have spent my career working for the State of Florida, in private business, and as a self-employed businessman. These experiences have taught me the importance of responsibility, hard work, and making smart financial decisions.

If elected, my priorities will be improving our roads and infrastructure, addressing traffic concerns, supporting agriculture, and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. As someone who was raised on a farm, I know agriculture is not just part of our history-it remains a vital part of our economy and our future. I will work to protect and strengthen our agriculture community while encouraging responsible growth that benefits everyone.I belive county government should be transparent, accountable, and focused on serving its citizens. I will listen to your concerns, make decisions based on common sense, and always put the interest of Suwannee County first.

I am not running for this office to build a political career. I am running because I love this community and want to help preserve the values that made Suwannee County a wonderful place to call home. I would be honored to earn your trust and your vote for Suwannee County Commissioner, District 2.

SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 3

WON

Malcolm Hines is a dedicated educator, military veteran, and educational leader with more than four decades of service to his country and community.

A 1983 graduate of Suwannee High School, Malcolm enlisted in the United States Army in December 1982. Over the course of a distinguished 26-year military career as a Military Policeman, he served in numerous leadership roles across various assignments. His career culminated as the U.S. Army Forces Command Provost Sergeant Major — serving in the largest command in the United States military. He retired with the rank of Sergeant Major after completing all required military professional development courses and specialized training, including Combating Terrorism, Antiterrorism, Physical Security/Crime Prevention, and Equal Opportunity Representative certification.

Malcolm’s military honors include the Legion of Merit, four awards of the Meritorious Service Medal, the Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge, the Drill Sergeant Badge, the German Marksmanship Badge (Bronze), and the Volunteerism Medal from Benjamin Banneker High School.

Following his military retirement, Malcolm transitioned into education, where he has continued his commitment to leadership and student development. His roles within the Suwannee School District include:

• Teacher, Alternative School (2009–2010)
• Dean of Students (2010–2015)
• Principal, Suwannee High School (2015–2018)
• Director of Safety and Security (2018–2021)
• Assistant Superintendent for Administration (2021–Present)

Malcolm holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Drury University, a Master’s degree in U.S. History from American Military University, and a Master’s degree in Education Leadership from American College of Education.

Malcolm was recently appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis to the Board of Trustees at North Florida College.

He is married to Patricia, and together they have two children, Zahra and Malcolm II. Throughout his career in both military and education, Malcolm has remained committed to leadership, service, and strengthening the communities he serves.

Note: The candidate's photograph and statement are supplied by the candidate and are not endorsed by the County Supervisor of Elections or checked for accuracy. 

SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 5

WON

Aaron Bass is a lifelong advocate for children, families, and education in Suwannee County. A 2002 graduate of Branford High School, Aaron understands firsthand the impact that strong schools, dedicated teachers, and caring mentors can have on a student’s life. Raised by a single mother alongside his brother and sisters, Aaron experienced many of the challenges that families face. Growing up, he never knew what the future would hold. Through the guidance of strong mentors, the support of family, and a commitment to hard work, he learned the importance of perseverance, personal responsibility, and giving back to others.

Those experiences shaped the man he is today, a devoted husband, father of three, business owner, coach, and mentor. For years, Aaron has invested his time in mentoring young people, coaching local athletes, and supporting students both on and off the field. Through these experiences, he has built relationships with families, teachers, administrators, and community members throughout District 5.

Aaron believes strong schools are built through communication, accountability, and partnerships between families, educators, administrators, and the community. He is committed to listening, asking questions, finding solutions, and ensuring that District 5 families have a voice in decisions that impact their children and schools.