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Stephanie Murphy Launches Bid for Orange County Mayor

Murphy plans to apply her bipartisan problem-solving skills to housing affordability challenges in Orange County.

Overview

  • On July 9, 2025, former U.S. Rep. Stephanie Murphy officially announced her candidacy for Orange County mayor, marking her entry as a frontrunner in the nonpartisan race.
  • Murphy will compete against Orange County Clerk Tiffany Moore Russell, Commissioner Mayra Uribe and tech entrepreneur Chris Messina for the open seat.
  • The contest follows Mayor Jerry Demings reaching his term limit and the recent decision by Val Demings not to seek the position.
  • Murphy highlights her tenure as co-chair of the Blue Dog Coalition and chief deputy whip in Congress as preparation for managing the county’s rapid growth, housing costs and transportation needs.
  • An August 18, 2026, primary will reduce the field to two candidates who will advance to the general election.