Jermaine J. Williams, a Pensacola-based behavioral health professional and filmmaker, has entered the 2026 race for mayor, adding to a field shaped by disputes over redevelopment, housing costs, homelessness, and public trust in City Hall.
Williams announced his candidacy in a campaign video that frames recent growth as disconnected from the people most affected by it. On his campaign website, Williams describes his platform as “people first,” arguing that growth should strengthen neighborhoods without forcing longtime residents out.
“Too many neighbors feel like Pensacola is being built around them and not with them,” Williams said. “Leadership starts by listening, by showing up, and putting people before profit.”
The field taking shape
Incumbent Mayor D.C. Reeves, elected in 2022, is seeking another term as the field expands…