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Late Entry Means Ballot Lacks Lawyer's Name

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By GEOFF FOX

gfox@tampatrib.com

Published: October 19, 2008

Although his name won't even be on the ballot Nov. 4, Spring Hill lawyer Jason Melton figures he still has a good chance of defeating Robert Schenck for the District 44 state House seat.

The 34-year-old Democrat joined the race Sept. 25, after Joe Puglia dropped out because of a family illness. Melton entered the race so late that Puglia's name will still be on ballots. So, a vote for Puglia will be a vote for Melton; notices will alert voters.

"I considered running in May and made a decision to continue my law practice," Melton said. "Since May, though, our conditions, especially financially, have gotten so bad. When Puglia dropped out, it was a no-brainer. Our economy is spinning out of control."

Also campaigning for the incumbent Republican's seat is Green Party candidate Sarah Roman, 22, of Port Richey.

The district includes central Pasco County, most of Hernando County and part of Sumter County.

A real estate broker from Spring Hill, Schenck, 33, is seeking his second term.

"The top issue is the economy," he said. "That affects the decreases in the state budget. Plus, I want to continue to fight to decrease the property taxes."

ROBERT SCHENCK
AGE: 33

EDUCATION: University of Central Florida, bachelor's degree

FAMILY: Married, two children

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: Has owned a real estate brokerage since 2007; Hernando County School District, exceptional student teacher, 2001-02; teacher at Brooksville Central High School, 1998-2001.

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: State House, 2006-present; Hernando County commissioner, 2002-06.
JAMES MELTON
AGE: 34

EDUCATION: Catholic University of America, law degree; Southern Methodist University, bachelor's degree.

FAMILY: Engaged

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: Lawyer since 2002

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: None

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