January 2026
Letter from the Chair
Something powerful is happening in Collier County—and it’s only the beginning.
Later this January, we will open the doors to our new Democratic headquarters. That space represents far more than walls and windows. It is a home for organizing, for welcoming new voices, for building strategy, and for reminding ourselves that democracy is not a spectator sport. It is a place where neighbors become volunteers, volunteers become leaders, and leaders become candidates.
And yes—we have candidates stepping forward. Brave, committed Democrats who believe our community deserves representation that listens, serves, and tells the truth. But we know this: the work is bigger than any one race or any one name on the ballot. That’s why we are actively seeking more candidates, more organizers, more people willing to say, “I can help.” Because you can.
For the first time in a long time, we are also seeing momentum on our side. Across Florida and across the country, Democrats outperformed expectations in the 2025 elections. Voters are paying attention. They are pushing back against extremism and choosing solutions over chaos, compassion over cruelty, and democracy over division. The tide is turning.
Collier County is part of that story. Every conversation, every meeting, every door knocked and call made matters. Our new HQ will be a launchpad for action and a symbol of belief in what’s possible.
This is our moment. Let’s show up, step forward, and build the future—together.
You’re invited to join us for the next meeting of the
Collier County Democratic Executive Committee
JANUARY 14, 2026
NOTE: It’s the 2nd Wednesday this month!
at 5010 9th Street North, Naples, FL 34103
(our new HQ in the Heritage Court plaza!)
5:30 Social Hour, 6:30 PM Business Meeting
This meeting is especially exciting as it will be our very first meeting in our new headquarters—a milestone for Democrats in Collier County and a sign that we are growing, organizing, and moving forward together.
If you’ve been wondering how to get involved, this is the moment. The work we do now will shape the direction of our community and our country in 2026 and beyond. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, supporting candidates, serving on a committee, or simply learning more, your voice and participation matter.
This is your opportunity to help create the change you want to see happen.
We hope you’ll join us, meet fellow Democrats, and be part of the energy and momentum building right here in Collier County.
All are welcome. We look forward to seeing you there.
All registered Democrats may attend and observe as guests, and all attendees must register ahead of time. Only DEC members may vote and participate in the meeting. Attendees are encouraged to join 10 minutes early to get settled before the 6:30 meeting begins.
The Collier County Democratic Club will meet on
Monday, January 12
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
at the
Collier County Education Association
6710 Lone Oak Blvd
Naples, FL 34109
Attorney Eloise Ayala will speak on the state of immigration in Florida, with Temporary Protected Status visas ending early in 2026 for several groups. Ms. Ayala has practiced for more than 10 years, specializing in Immigration law. As an undergraduate she worked for an immigration law office, and after being admitted to the Florida Bar, she worked for Legal Aid Service of Collier County in Immigration. Now Ms. Ayala is in private practice specializing in removal proceedings, including people detained by ICE; asylum; and humanitarian processes such as the U visa, VAWA, and much more.
The Democratic Women’s Club of Marco (DWCM)
The next meeting of DWC Marco will take place on
Tuesday, January 20
5:00 pm- 6:30 pm in person
at Mackle Park Community Center
1361 Andalusia Terrace, Marco Island
Our speakers will be Howard Sapp, who is running for Congressional District 19 (Byron Donalds’ former congressional seat), along with Yurina Gil, who is running for the Congressional District 26 seat.
Plus, TEASER!, we are launching a new feature at this meeting: DID YOU KNOW?
Join us to meet the candidates!
The Collier County Democratic Environmental Caucus of Florida (CCDECF)
Naples City Council Election is February 3rd
The Collier County chapter of the Democratic Environmental Caucus of Florida is actively working in this election, to make sure that Naples city voters learn which candidates will fight overdevelopment, and air and water pollution. If you live in the city and want some help with your ballot, or if you live in Collier County and want to help city voters make sure their vote will count, sign up here, and someone will contact you.
If you do live in the city, remember, there will be no early voting. Call the Supervisor of Elections now (see below), and be sure to receive your Vote by Mail ballot, just in case you are unable to vote on election day.
Any questions, feel free to contact: Judy Freiberg President, CCDECF – judyfreiberg@sbcglobal.net
Also! Stop by and visit us at our table at the Naples Martin Luther King Jr Day festivities on January 19!
Why Democratic Candidates on the Ballot Matter
Democracy only works when voters have real choices. When Democratic candidates appear on the ballot, we ensure that every voter – regardless of party – has a voice and an alternative.
Even in challenging districts, Democratic candidates make a difference. Every campaign strengthens our local party, energizes volunteers, and helps move the needle statewide. Strong Democratic turnout up and down the ballot impacts school boards, county offices, the legislature, and even the governor’s race.
Running also matters because it changes conversations. Democratic candidates bring issues like affordability, public education, healthcare, and common-sense governance into the spotlight – forcing accountability and giving voters hope for something better.
When we leave seats uncontested, we surrender our voice. When we show up, we build momentum.
That’s why having Democratic candidates on the ballot isn’t symbolic – it’s essential.
Click the button ➡️ to hear from a past Democratic candidate and learn why he ran. Then ask yourself one simple question: Why not me?
Engage In Your Community!
Collier County Board of County Commissioners hold public meetings on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month at 9:00am in the BCC Chambers on the 3rd floor of the Government Center. Agendas and minutes are available here. Other Collier County committee meetings are listed on their calendar.
The Collier County School Board normally holds public meetings on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 9:00am at the Dr Martin Luther King Administrative Center (5775 Osceola Trail, Naples), unless noted otherwise. Here are links to view agendas and minutes. School Board seats for Districts 1, 3, and 5 will be open in the November 2026 election. If you are interested in running to serve the children of Collier County, now is the time to begin preparing. Please contact Carrie Stewart for information.
Naples City Council normally holds its regular public meetings on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at 8:30am in the City Hall Council Chambers at 735 8th Street South. You can view agendas and minutes, and watch the meetings live online using the foregoing link.
The Marco Island City Council normally holds public meetings on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of the month at 5:30pm in the Dr. Fay and Bedford Biles Community Room, 51 Bald Eagle Drive, Marco Island. Agendas and minutes are available here.
If you know of other local government meetings and events we should list here, please email Sandy Ussia at sandy.ussia303@gmail.com
Your Voice. Your Future. Your Power.
Now more than ever, young people are changing the world—and Florida Young Democrats is where that momentum begins.
We’re building a movement of bold, diverse leaders ready to make real change. By joining Florida Young Democrats, you’re not just standing up for your future—you’re stepping into your power. Together, we amplify youth voices in the political process, fight for legislation that benefits our generation, and elect Young Democrats who reflect our values and our vision.
Whether you’re passionate about justice, climate, education, housing, or voting rights—this is your place to turn that passion into action.
Trusted News Sources!
Have you had enough of watching the news on TV, or reading national newspapers? If so, we can recommend some alternative news sources!
We’ve added a new web page listing local and national progressive information sources, as well as trusted blogs and social media commentary. Want to suggest other sources for this page? Contact Us!
The Collier County Democratic Executive Committee (CCDEC) is the official, local county arm of the Florida Democratic Party. The CCDEC has oversight over all Democratic Party activities within Collier County. LEARN MORE
The Collier County Democratic Party is an all-volunteer, entirely donor-funded organization. Our local party can not exist without volunteers and donors like you.