This is the craziest part of the election cycle, with signs and campaign propaganda everywhere you look, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the clutter, collateral and various communications. Before it got to this point, we have had meaningful conversations that took place at two very popular Meet the Minds candidate forums this year, held by The Argus Foundation. A packed house of 165 people attended the sold-out Florida Senate candidate forum. At the luncheon, six hopeful candidates displayed their differences in approaches, preparation and views.

Frank Cirillo, former State Representative Doug Holder, Rick Levine, former County Commissioner Nora Patterson, current State Representative Ray Pilon and current State Representative Greg Steube answered questions on a variety of issues, including taxes, Enterprise Florida, transportation, education and incentives.