Clearwater voters choose between Wilson and Bunker in historic runoff

Clearwater residents will cast ballots in the city's first runoff election on November 3. The contest pits Sam Wilson, 26, against Mark Bunker, 70. Wilson serves as the district director for U.S. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna. Bunker is a former City Council member and a long-time critic of the Church of Scientology.

The need for a runoff stems from a 2024 charter change requiring candidates to secure a majority of votes to win a seat. In the August 18 primary for Seat 5, Wilson received nearly 49% of the vote. Bunker earned 35%, and local business owner Kevin R. T. Laughlin received 16%. In the primary for Seat 4, Jared Leone defeated Bianca Latvala without a runoff requirement.

The candidates hold different views on major local issues, including a proposed 77-acre golf course and Amendment 3. Bunker, who moved to Clearwater in 2000 from Los Angeles, has spent two decades criticizing the Church of Scientology. His 2020 election was notable as the first time in decades that an elected official spoke openly and critically about the organization. A permanent injunction currently prevents Bunker and members of the church from coming within 10 feet of each other.

Bunker has raised more than $12,000 for his campaign. He has received financial support from donors in states including Virginia, Hawaii, Texas, and Pennsylvania. He described his rivals on the current council as displaying tension and anger. Bunker also cited his support for accessory dwelling units and the North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area as key achievements during his previous term.

Wilson has reported nearly $61,000 in campaign contributions, along with more than $34,000 raised by a supporting political committee. He has drawn support from local and state Republicans, including Mayor, state Rep. Berny Jacques, state Sen. Nick DiCeglie, and Rep. Luna. The party has also funded advertisements targeting Bunker's party affiliation and a past bankruptcy.

The Church of Scientology has become a central talking point in the race. Sarah Heller, a spokesperson for the church, called Bunker's claim that the Cleveland Street Alliance is a front group "preposterous." She noted that the alliance's manager, Scott Dobbins, told the City Council the church was involved during a special meeting earlier this year. The alliance has announced plans for new restaurants and a $50 million movie theater downtown.

Wilson stated that he is not focused on a single issue but is addressing concerns that matter to all residents. He said supporters from the church are backing him because he is tackling broad issues, not because he represents them. He expressed confidence that residents will value the new entertainment venue regardless of ownership. Wilson estimated he was only 400 or 500 votes away from securing the required majority in the primary.