BREAKING: Key West Business Owner Bobi Lore Enters Race to Succeed Sam Kaufman on City Commission
Key West entrepreneur Bobi Lore has announced his intention to run for the District 2 City Commission seat currently held by Commissioner Sam Kaufman, who earlier announced his candidacy for mayor.
Local business owner and community activist Bobi Lore officially announced his candidacy for the District 2 seat on the City Commission this week, stepping into a race to replace incumbent Commissioner Sam Kaufman, who earlier declared his intent to run for Mayor of Key West.
Lore’s campaign declares the slogan “Common Sense for the Common Good,” and he emphasized his focus on the island’s working families, live-aboard waterfront residents, and public accountability.
“I will stand up for the working people of this community, who bear the weight of keeping our island functioning at its best, with integrity and genuine care for their well-being,” Lore said in his announcement.
Targets the Seat Currently Held by Sam Kaufman
Kaufman’s prior signal of a mayoral bid opens the District 2 seat and provides a clear opening for Lore’s campaign.
Lore pledged to build on a foundation of constituent engagement and open debate:
“I will meet with my constituents regularly and listen to their concerns … I will not stand for back-room deals or other actions that are not given the transparency of open debate. My inner compass always points toward the common good.”
Campaign Platform and District Focus
Lore owns a Key West business employing over forty staff and says his experience has shaped his leadership approach of “treating people with kindness and respect.”
He said he would extend that same attitude toward his constituents in District 2.
He singled out the Garrison Bight / City Marina area within his district, noting its unique live-aboard population and distinct needs:
“With District 2 containing the Garrison Bight / City Marina, I know it is important to stand for the particular needs of the live-aboard community — and I will do that,” he said.
His platform includes:
Holding the city accountable on budgeting and tax allocation
Preserving Key West’s cultural and social character amid development pressures
Supporting public safety and emergency-response teams
Lore emphasized that his campaign is built on consensus rather than division, saying:
“As a consensus builder who loves working with people … I will work to build solidarity between us and not let forces that may seek to divide us against each other take hold.”
Why This Matters
District 2 is pivotal in the 2026 commission election cycle. With an incumbent vacating the seat to run for mayor, Lore’s entrance sets up a key contest in the city’s governance. The focus on live-aboard rights, fiscal scrutiny, and cultural preservation speaks to concerns at the waterfront and among long-time residents.
This is an evolving story. Above the Fold will continue to track the City Commission elections, including candidate filings, fundraising activity, endorsements, and any official statements from candidates. Updates will be provided as they develop.