In the 2024 election cycle, Inman-Johnson took on Commissioner Curtis Richardson. Richardson won reelection, capturing 50.71% of the general election vote with Inman-Johnson receiving 49.29% of vote.

Like Kalicki, Inman-Johnson is part of the Tallahassee progressive movement led by City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow.

“I’m not willing to let Dianne Williams-Cox be re-elected without a meaningful challenge. City Hall is in disarray; it’s clear we are going to need stability and ethical leadership in Seat 5 to guide our City through this interim period,” said Inman-Johnson. “I’m willing to serve one term and make sure the transition is successful.”

In addition to Dianne Williams-Cox, the seat 5 race also includes candidates Tifany Hill and Bernard Stevens.

The news release from the campaign is below;

TALLAHASSEE, FL— Dot is back.

Dot Inman-Johnson filed to run for Tallahassee City Commission Seat 5 to challenge Commissioner Dianne Williams-Cox.

“I’m not willing to let Dianne Williams-Cox be re-elected without a meaningful challenge. City Hall is in disarray; it’s clear we are going to need stability and ethical leadership in Seat 5 to guide our City through this interim period,” said Inman-Johnson. “I’m willing to serve one term and make sure the transition is successful.”

Inman-Johnson cites the hostile state government takeover of Tallahassee Memorial Hospital, reckless selloff of Capital City County Club, questionable administration of the Fire Services Fee and chronic City Hall self-dealing, with political insiders benefitting themselves by sitting on local government boards in her decision to run.

The announcement comes as embattled City Manager Reese Goad abruptly resigns leaving a void in responsible leadership to appoint his successor.

Dot Inman-Johnson served honorably as Mayor and City Commissioner, building consensus from neighborhoods and business interests alike. A historic figure in Tallahassee politics, Inman-Johnson was the first Black woman to serve as Mayor and gave the Key to the City to Civil Rights icon Rosa Parks.

A proven vote getter, she received 40,856 votes against incumbent Curtis Richardson last November and 15,791 votes in a first-place August primary result, for a total 56,647 ballots cast for Inman-Johnson in the most recent City elections.

“I have advocated and navigated high stakes community issues that divided our community like the coal plant, and helped guide the creation of Kleman Plaza downtown development that now bears my name at Dot Inman-Johnson Park.”

Since 2024 Dot has remained in the spotlight leading the fight against what she cites as an illegal tax in the way the Fire Service Fee is administered.

“We need to move forward with engaged neighborhoods, a responsible business community, leaders unwilling to blur ethical lines, and most of all the restored trust of everyday Tallahassee residents,” she added.

“I have the expertise to bring stable, ethical leadership during this transition to get our house back in order,” concluded Inman-Johnson.

Dot’s official campaign operations will launch the week of May 18, when she will be available for media interviews.

In a lengthy and candid social media post, Kalicki said the decision followed “radical transparency” about his strengths and limitations. While expressing pride in raising more than $20,000 in three months and contributing new ideas to the public conversation, he acknowledged that his campaign could not scale up the level of voter outreach needed to compete effectively.

“Running for office is hard, isolating, and is not for everyone,” Kalicki wrote, adding that increasing campaign intensity would come at the expense of his professional responsibilities and personal well-being. He said he did not feel comfortable continuing to ask for donations without confidence he could meet the demands required to win.

Kalicki emphasized that his withdrawal was voluntary and not the result of outside pressure. He also said he chose to exit the race early to give voters and potential candidates time to adjust before the election.

Despite stepping away from the campaign, Kalicki indicated he will remain civically engaged in Tallahassee. He plans to launch “Future Tallahassee,” an initiative focused on economic development, redevelopment, and community-driven investment. He also intends to support other candidates aligned with his priorities.

In his post, Kalicki reflected on broader challenges in local politics, including the difficulty of fundraising, the need for more trained campaign staff, and what he described as limitations in current election formats. He called for more debates over forums and expressed support for ranked-choice voting as a potential reform.

Kalicki also offered refunds to recent donors and said remaining campaign funds may be redirected to charitable causes with contributor approval.

He concluded by thanking supporters and encouraging future candidates to trust their instincts, noting the experience provided valuable insight into the city’s political landscape and policy challenges.

North Florida’s largest labor union has endorsed City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow for Mayor of Tallahassee.

The Big Bend Labor Council represents over a dozen bargaining units representing over 5,300 employees across Leon, Gadsden, Franklin, Wakulla, Liberty, Calhoun, Madison and Taylor counties, including more than 3,000 in our Capital County.

The endorsement comes just before May Day, a worker’s holiday more than a century old where nearly half a million workers across the states went on strike to demand an eight-hour workday.

Today, the labor movement continues to align with elected leaders to pursue greater healthcare, workplace safety, and childcare benefits, entitled by the dignity of all who labor.

“This endorsement shows the broad support our campaign has gained from working families all across Tallahassee,” said Commissioner Matlow. “Workers represented in the endorsement include Leon County Schools teachers, faculty at FSU and FAMU, support staff, bus drivers and postal workers.”

“Our community faces the biggest decision in years at the ballot box in 2026 City Commission elections. The contrast between insider elites’ and everyone else’s views could not be clearer. This endorsement means Tallahasseeans can walk through a new chapter at City Hall in solidarity, committed to reform and a new day in local government.”

“I am proud to receive this endorsement and as Mayor, I will bring its spirit of pro-worker advocacy to my work at City Hall every day,” Matlow concluded.

BBLC President Jordan Scott added, “Jeremy Matlow continuously receives endorsements from organized labor because he is committed to making Tallahassee a place for fair wages and safe working conditions. He knows that it is not developers who drive our economy but the majority of us who go to work every day to put food on the table for our families and loved ones. Building a better Tallahassee is about building a movement of workers, communities, and neighborhoods.”

The group previously endorsed the candidacy of current city commissioner Dianne Williams-Cox.

The press release stated:

“On behalf of the dedicated and essential men and women, who help keep Tallahassee safe, I am proud to announce our endorsement of Loranne Ausley for Mayor of Tallahassee.  Throughout her tenure in the Florida State Legislature, Loranne Ausley has always championed the issues that matter most to our officers and their families. She has consistently defended the rights of law enforcement officers and advocated for more funding to keep police officers safe, while they are on patrol, protecting our communities.   She also understands that investing in law enforcement officers is a smart investment in public safety. We are equally proud to endorse Talethia Edwards for City Commission Seat 3. She will bring both a fresh voice to the City Commission and partner with us to advocate for law enforcement and enhance public safety. We ask our members, their families and fellow citizens to join us in electing these two outstanding public servants to keep Tallahassee moving forward, safer and stronger than ever before.”

Clemson is a surprising 3-5 this season with wins against Troy, North Carolina and Boston College and losses to LSU, Georgia Tech, Syracuse, SMU and Duke.

FSU is 21-16 versus Clemson all time. The last time FSU beat the Tigers was in 2023. The ‘Noles won 31-24 in overtime.

Observations from the last game

The offense got off to a slow start, but the defense played well enough to let the offense find its footing late in the first quarter with a big play from ACC offensive player of the week, Duce Robinson. Robinson had 5 catches for 148 yards and a touchdown.

The ‘Noles showed more discipline with zero turnovers and only 3 penalties to go along with more attention to detail and energy. The was a huge difference from the Stanford game.

Florida State offense versus Clemson defense

The ‘Noles will have to rely on quarterback Tommy Castellanos’ arm in this one as the Clemson defense has been good against the run but towards the bottom of the ACC versus the pass. Castellanos had his best passing of his career with 271 yards. Most of these yards were to Duce Robinson. The Clemson front 7 has made plenty of plays but when they’re unable to get it done, the secondary lets them down.

Players to watch for are defensive linemen Peter Woods and Will Heldt (4 sacks) and linebackers Sammy Brown (leads the team with 58 tackles) and Wade Woodaz. Interesting matchups on this side of the ball are Woods against center Luke Petitbon and the Clemson linebackers up against tight end Randy Pittman and the backs catching the ball out of the backfield.

Florida State defense versus Clemson offense

Quarterback Cade Klubnik was supposed to be a Heisman contender, but it has been a down year. He has thrown for 1,900 yards and 13 touchdowns.  This is peculiar with all the playmakers he has around him and an offensive line that has allowed him to only get sacked 8 times.

The player that Clemson likes to get the ball to is running back Adam Randall who has 522 yards rushing, 25 catches and 9 total touchdowns. Receivers that Klubnik likes are Bryant Wesco and Antonio Williams. I think the Florida State defense is going to slow Randall, but the biggest problem will be trying to keep Klubnik from extending drives with his scrambling.

Special Teams

This phase of the game has been shaky for both teams but with Squirrel White back returning punts I give FSU the advantage here.

Prediction

It’s hard to predict this game with both teams having lots of talent that has underwhelmed or has been inconsistent. Clemson is at home and needs to win to have a shot at a bowl game. I think it’ll be a close game, and the Tigers pull it out.

Florida State 28 Clemson 31

Parks was followed by City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow who raised $73,489 and Loranne Ausley with $64,082.

In the Tallahassee City Commission Seat 3 contest, Talethia Edwards reported $15,200, P.J. Perez reported $13,040, Max Herrle reported $7,032 and Norm Roche reported $856.

In the race for Tallahassee City Commission Seat 5, incumbent City Commissioner Dianne Williams-Cox reported $17,375. Challenger Bernard Stevens has not yet to report contributions.

In the Leon County Commission District 1, Commissioner Bill Proctor is the only candidate, and he reported $12,050 in contributions.

In the race for Leon County Commission District 3, challenger Charles Lorch reported $13,700 while incumbent Commissioner Rick Minor has yet to report contributions.

In the race for Leon County Commission District 5, the only candidate, David Hawkins, reported $100 in contributions.

The next campaign reports are due to be filed no later than January 12, 2026.

Allison Tant, Florida House member representing District 9, kicked off her final House campaign – due to term limits – on Monday at Food Glorious Food in Midtown. Tant first won the seat on November 3, 2020, and has subsequently been re-elected.

Tant addressed the crowd, “Thank you to the beautiful cross-section of House District 9 who helped me launch my ’26 campaign, my last election to the FL House. I’m honored by and grateful for your support.”

Matlow Targets “Wealthy Individuals”

City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow kicked off his 2026 campaign at Proof Brewing Company on Saturday telling his supporters that “wealthy individuals” rule Tallahassee.

The event, began with a performance from Mayday Parade lead singer Derek Sanders, a longtime friend of Matlow who said, “I think if there is one thing we could use a lot more in this country it’s politicians who care for and fight for the working class and not just the wealthy elite.”

Matlow followed up by saying, “Believe with me that our best days are ahead. Believe with me that we don’t have to be ruled by a handful of wealthy individuals. Believe that we can expand the arts and childhood wellness. Believe that we can combat homelessness. Believe that we can improve lives with targeted investment. Believe that Tallahassee can be the affordable shining city atop the seven hills.”

Currently also in the race for Mayor is former state senator Loranne Ausley and civil rights attorney Daryl Parks.

Bernard Stevens to Challenge Dianne Wiliams-Cox

On September 5th, Bernard Stevens filed for City Commission Seat 5, setting up a race against City Commissioner Dianne Williams-Cox who has filed for re-election.

Last year, Stevens’ ran for City Commission Seat 2. He faced Dot Inman-Johnson, Donna Nyack and City Commissioner Curtis Richardson. Richardson won re-election.

Florida is 6-5 on season with wins against Samford, UCF, Mississippi State, Kentucky, LSU and Ole Miss with losses to Miami, Texas A&M, Tennessee, Georgia and Texas.

FSU is 28-37-2 versus Florida in the series all-time. The ‘Noles won in a defensive slugfest last year at the Swamp and won in a shootout, 45-38, in ’22.

Observations from the last game

The quarterback, Luke Kromenhoek, showed he can make most of the throws at a few different arm angles and demonstrated his athleticism in the open field and in the pocket. The young skill position players, Landen Thomas, Amaree Williams, Elijah Moore and Micahi Danzy, made some big plays as well.

The offensive line played decent when they followed through on their assignments.

Florida State offense versus Florida defense

FSU is going to go with Luke Kromenhoek at QB once again. The key on this side of the ball is the run game for FSU. The Gators have done a decent job against the run but have been better the last two games versus LSU and Ole Miss.

Florida State is 132^nd in yards per game rushing but might have gained some confidence in the last game. If Lawrance Toafili and Kam Davis can get some yards on first down, it’ll open things up for the freshman quarterback.

When it comes to the passing game it should be tough against a defensive front that has 5 players with at least 2 sacks including Tyreak Sapp, who has 6. Stat stuffing DBs Trikweze Bridges and Jordan Castell are other players to look out for.

Florida State defense versus Florida offense

UF quarterback DJ Lagway had a slow start to the season due to facing some tough defenses and an injury but has been turning heads the past couple games. Lagway is normally a dual threat, but his leg injury has hindered him a bit. This still hasn’t deterred them from being a run heavy offense (57% run to pass). Jadan Baugh, Montrell Johnson and Ja’Kobi Jackson split the carries and have 18 rushing touchdowns between them.

FSU needs a big performance from the defensive line to disrupt the running game and give the linebackers like Blake Nichelson (48 tackles) and Cam Riley (44 tackles) clean lanes to make the tackle. Elijah Badger (22.2 yards per catch), Chimere Dike and tight end Arlis Boardingham are Lagway’s go to guys in the passing game.

Special Teams

Chimere Dike is 10^th in FBS in punt return yards per attempt with 14.9. He gives UF the slight advantage.

Prediction

This game will come down to the trenches. This is where the Gators have a major advantage. UF should be able to establish the run on offense and will have Kromenhoek under pressure all night. Mercifully, the season we would like to forget about, comes to an end.

Florida State 13 Florida 41.

North Carolina is 4-4 on the season with wins against Minnesota, Charlotte, North Carolina Central and Virginia and losses to James Madison, Duke, Pittsburgh and Georgia Tech.

FSU is 17-3-1 versus the Tar Heels all time. UNC coach Mack Brown is 0-11 against his alma mater. The last time these schools played was in 2021, the ‘Noles won 35-25.

Observations from the last game

The offense made some progress in the run game stats mostly due to Luke Kromenhoek’s broken QB sneak play. Left tackle Robert Scott Jr played great while replacing Darius Washington. The defense played better and even held Cam Ward to a season low 206 yards passing but made mistakes in some big moments. Miami converted on 3^rd and 20+ twice. Linebacker Omar Graham has improved tremendously since week 1 and was making plays all game, picking up a sack and a pass break up.

Florida State offense versus North Carolina defense

It’s looking like Brock Glenn is going to start with Kromenhoek coming off the bench. The Carolina defense ranks 90^th in the FBS in yards per play given up on the season (5.8) but had a dominant performance against Virginia.

UNC racked up 10 sacks, forced 3 turnovers and had a fumble recovery for a touchdown. FSU needs to protect the ball and get some positive plays on first down to stay out long third down situations. The defense has been very inconsistent so the outcome of the game might depend on which Tar Heel defensive unit shows up.

Players to watch are defensive tackle Jahvaree Ritzie (6 sacks) and linebackers Antavious Lane (54 tackles) and Amare Campbell (50 tackles and 4 sacks).

Florida State defense versus North Carolina offense

The Seminole defense showed a good amount of improvement against one of the best offenses in the country. Especially given the struggles against mobile QBs. They need to keep it going against UNC quarterback Jacolby Criswell (1,660 yards passing, 154 yards rushing and 12 total touchdowns).

Having to deal with Criswell will be half the battle as the Carolina offense features one of the best running backs in the nation, Omarion Hampton. Hampton has rushed for 1,006 yards and 9 touchdowns. He’s a receiving threat as well with 172 yards. Other receiving options are the tight ends Bryson Nesbitt and John Copenhaver (3 TDS each).

Slowing down Hampton is the biggest priority for the FSU defense, so d-lineman Josh Farmer and Darrell Jackson need to have big games.

Special Teams

Advantage: Heavy Florida State

Prediction

UNC will have a couple of breakdowns on defense helping the Seminole put some points on the board. Special teams should also be a big factor in the game. I expect a blocked kick or long return to tilt the game in Florida State’s favor.

Florida State 21 North Carolina 19.

A twenty-minute video featuring Serenity Williams, the head of the Leon County Young Democrats and an Inman-Johnson supporter, states police officers do not deter crime and that the location of the TPD headquarters will result in more policing of “our people.”

This video was shared by Inman-Johnson’s campaign manager and husband, Lee Johnson, on Facebook with the message “Must See TV.” Matlow also shared the video on his social media accounts.

Campaign Messaging

During the campaign for control of the Tallahassee city commission, Dot Inman-Johnson and her financial backer – City Commissioner Matlow – have messaged voters with their fiscal concerns over the city property tax increase that funded more police officers. The campaign also raised fiscal concerns about the cost of the new TPD police headquarters.

The messaging is designed to attract conservative voters in an election that features two Democrats.

However, now it appears that Inman-Johnson and Matlow are concealing their true policy positions about law enforcement from everyone but their core followers, while pushing a fiscal conservative narrative to others.

Are their concerns about taxes or law enforcement?

Hiring Police Officers Does Not Deter Crime

In the video, Ms. Williams states there are no studies that indicate that hiring more police officers deter crime. This false statement – there are plenty of studies that show the impact of police officers on crime – is an attempt to criticize the city commission’s recent decision to hire more police officers to address a 2023 spike in violent crime.

However, with the Inman-Johnson campaign promoting the video as “Must See TV” to the campaign’s Facebook followers, the content of the video raises concerns about Inman-Johson’s actions if elected. Will she vote to cut police officers and other law enforcement resources?

Tallahassee’ “Cop City”

Iman-Johnson and Matlow have also raised concerns about the cost of the new Tallahassee Police Department headquarters located off of Tharpe Street. However, in the video, Williams refers to the new headquarters as “Cop City”, a derogatory label used by the defund the police movement in Atlanta who have violently opposed a new police facility.

In addition, Williams states the location of the new headquarters – across from RAA middle school – is racist. Williams says the location makes it easier for law enforcement to police “our people.”

Where Does Inman-Johnson Stand?

TR has sought out comment from the Inman-Johnson campaign on this issue. In the past, the campaign has refused to respond to our questions.

It appears it will be up to other local media outlets to question her about the anti-law enforcement views shared by her campaign.

Since the primary election – August 20, the Matlow PAC has raised $179,900, $175,000 or 98% of the funds have come from out-of-state donors.

Matlow’s PAC is supporting Dot Inman-Johnson’s bid for city commission.

The latest donation comes from a “dark money” group. Dark money refers to spending to influence elections, public policy, and political discourse, where the source of the money is not disclosed to the public.

Delaware business filings show that the Local Jobs and Economic Development Fund was founded in February 2022. The registered agent on the listing is not linked to an actual person, but a firm that specializes in business filings.

The website also says that it is a 501(c)4 nonprofit, which are “social welfare organizations” that are not required to disclose donors and are allowed to engage in some political activity.