Michael Pultorak, a long-time Wesley Chapel resident and Hillsborough County Fire Rescue captain, is challenging incumbent Randy Maggard for Florida House District 54. Known as “The Parks Guy” for his frequent appearances at county commission meetings questioning development and data center projects, Pultorak has now turned his advocacy into a political campaign. He officially entered the race on June 30 and will face Maggard in the August 18 Republican primary, with no Democrat having qualified to run. Pultorak’s campaign focuses on opposing large-scale data centers, supporting local control over development through Florida’s Live Local Act, and addressing resident frustrations about parks and amenities in areas like Connected City. With 30 years of fire service experience including special operations work, he brings a background in disaster response and community service to his political bid. Despite being a first-time candidate with limited name recognition, Pultorak remains confident that disillusioned voters seeking change will support his grassroots campaign against the incumbent who holds significant fundraising advantages.
Facts
- Michael Pultorak is challenging incumbent Randy Maggard for Florida House District 54 in the August 18 Republican primary
- Pultorak has served 30 years in the fire service including 27 years with Hillsborough County Fire Rescue
- He entered the race on June 30 after frequently attending county commission meetings to question development and data center projects
- His campaign focuses on opposing large-scale data centers and supporting local control over high-density housing projects through Florida’s Live Local Act
- Pultorak states he does not accept campaign money from developers or utility companies
