Tallahassee Reports has learned from several sources close to Mayor John Dailey that Dailey has decided to seek a third term.
Dailey was first elected Tallahassee mayor in 2018 and re-elected in 2022.
The decision comes after most local politicos had concluded Dailey would not run again. This political vacuum opened the door for others with mayoral ambitions to step up.
For example, on April 6th, 2025, Tallahassee City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow appeared on The Sean Pittman Show and confirmed that he plans to run for Tallahassee mayor in the 2026.
Also, there was information indicating Leon County Commissioner Christian Caban would enter the race.
Other names bantered around included Bill Montford, Al Lawson, Allison Tant and Loranne Ausley.
However, it appears that many close to Dailey think the political winds have changed since the last two election cycles and that Dailey will have the opportunity to run a positive campaign related to accomplishments that include a lower crime rate and a solid local economy.
Will Dailey’s decision impact the ambitions of Matlow or Caban or any other possible candidate? Only time and a lot of polling will tell.
When are we going to stop worrying about the South side all the time. For years it is always to help the South side. I am tired of it. God helps those who help themselves.
Redneck: He should move to Southern Indiana and work in a limestone quarry for Mr. Slate. Yabba Dabba DO!
I see no good choices. Dailey should move on. Matlow is the worst.
What else can he do to make a living? Fry chicken for the Colonel?
Mr. Edward Lyle is right about this being an interesting development to say the least. If Matlow DOES as he said he will do and runs for Mayor, he will have an 75% chance of losing and if that happens, he is OUT OF THERE. SO, the REAL question is, Will he take that chance even though he has been very ADAMANT about running for Mayor.
An interesting development to say the least. The real question is, will Mr. Matlow still challenge for the Mayoral Seat?
Ish is the only one who has it right.
What Republican or third party opposition candidate could we see as a viable option?
Well, he's "better than Matlow" .... there's the campaign slogan. You're welcome.
So glad to hear the Mayor is running again. I live in the county but will volunteer for Dailey to fight against Matlow and his crazy progressive left wing agenda.
I’ve known John a long time. He’s earnest, forthright, and focused on doing what is best for our community. Do I agree with every stance he has taken ? Hell no! I’d be hard to name an elected official that I’d agree with 100%, but I waved signs at the library in ‘16 for him and I’d do it again. He represents our community well.
All folks need to rise up against the Leon County Property Appraisers Office, he is overvaluing our real estate; this is a tax increase.
As for Mayors and Commissioner's, only vote folks in that support the business community. Depending on where the wind blows, too often the commissioners chase the shiny lure.
Matlow is unqualified, unbalanced and self serving to say the least.
His main accomplishment is increased salaries, property taxes, fire services fees, top 10 best run city in the country (right?)...fill in the blank. It's time for new blood. Not everyone would agree the economy is "solid"...