(PENSACOLA) --- Col. Eric Shorter quotes President Abraham Lincoln regarding his mayoral run in Pensacola.
“To know what the people want and need, you must talk to the people,” Shorter said, quoting the famous Gettysburg Address. “I am of the people, by the people, for the people.”
Shorter challenges five candidates, including the incumbent, in the upcoming Primary Election, drawing on his adolescence for inspiration.
“My interest in politics began when I was 12 or 13 years old,” Shorter said. “One day, I noticed people standing in line outside a building and later learned it was a soup kitchen, and my first thought was simple: how can I help and maybe even volunteer?”
Growing up, Shorter said, his service raised more questions.
“I had the opportunity, like most of us, to participate in food drives, but a nagging question persisted as to why these people are poor,” Shorter said. “Poverty didn’t discriminate; it touched every race of people.”
(Photo: Eric Shorter)
Working part-time in college, Shorter said he relied on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for financial assistance.
“Government is in every facet of our lives,” Shorter said. “Government should operate to make people’s lives better.”
(Photo: Eric Shorter)
Shorter has great local pride and generational ties.
“I often say I am a ‘True Son of Pensacola’; thus, I had the privilege to grow up in our great city,” the candidate said. “I come from a long line of public servants in Pensacola, including political activists, teachers, policemen, nurses, and small business owners, so it seems my desire for Pensacola is innate.”
Shorter said his decision to enter politics was not easy.
“It required careful thought and consideration,” Shorter said. “Having worked in both state and federal government, I understand what can realistically be accomplished at the local level."
Shorter’s campaign platform stands on four pillars, beginning with vertical economic initiatives.
“Pensacola needs good-paying jobs,” Shorter said.
(Photo: Eric Shorter)
Along with employment comes affordable housing for homeowners and renters. Speaking of neighborhoods, Shorter wants Pensacola residents to enjoy the outdoors together.
“We need neighbor revitalization,” Shorter said. “Our parks, recreation, and neighborhood amenities need improvement.”
Lastly, Shorter wants to ensure locals have the same opportunities he had.
“The educational system must prepare students and young adults to meet the challenges of evolving societal expectations and a constantly changing job market,” Shorter said.
Shorter notes that the support of his mother, son, grandkids, and extended family inspires him after all these years. LAfter a lengthy military career and countless hours of volunteering, Shorter said his life experience and love for Pensacola are why he stepped up to the mayoral plate.
“I realize I still have gas in the tank and a desire to serve,” Shorter said.
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