NewsMySuncoast / WWSB (ABC Sarasota)August 14, 2026Sarasota County
Sarasota Commissioners allege developers are funding anonymous attack ads in primary race
Sarasota County Commissioners Joe Nuender and Mark Smith allege that a Wyoming-based nonprofit is spending at least $20,000 on anonymous attack ads to influence the upcoming August 19 primary election. The commissioners claim the ads target their voting records on development, while their opponents, Jim DeNiro and Kristina Sargent, deny any involvement or knowledge of the funding source.
Read the full story at MySuncoast / WWSB (ABC Sarasota)Why It Matters
Sarasota voters are facing an influx of anonymous political advertising ahead of the August 19 primary, raising questions about the influence of outside organizations on local candidate races.
Key Facts
Each fact below is taken from the article. Click one to see the exact passage.
Who's Mentioned
personMax Goodman“Consultant for the DeNiro campaign who denied knowledge of the ads.”personMark Smith“Incumbent commissioner alleging outside influence in his primary race.”personJoe Nuender“Incumbent commissioner alleging outside influence in his primary race.”organizationThe Florida Trident“News outlet that reported on the funding of the ads.”organizationLocal Government Accountability Inc.“Wyoming nonprofit identified by The Florida Trident as a source of campaign fund”personKristina Sargent“Challenger in the District 2 race.”organizationU.S. Polling Research LLC“Entity linked to the funding of attack ads.”personJim DeNiro“Challenger in the District 4 race.”