ORLANDO, Fla. — Sunday, May 19 is the last day to vote early in District 5's special election in Orlando.

The election comes after former Commissioner Regina Hill was suspended and charged with three counts of elderly exploitation, two charges of fraudulent activity and two additional charges.

What You Need To Know

  • Sunday, May 19 is the last day to vote early in District 5's special election in Orlando

  • The election comes after former Commissioner Regina Hill was suspended and charged with three counts of elderly exploitation, two charges of fraudulent activity and two additional charges

  • Seven candidates have filed to fill the seat

  • Orange County Supervisor of Elections Glen Gilzean said he expects voters to show up in high numbers on Election Day, May 21

Seven candidates have filed to fill the seat, and as the race winds down, Orange County Supervisor of Elections Glen Gilzean said District 5’s election on Tuesday is one they’re prepared for.

“One of the beautiful things about this office is that we have over 425 years of experience,” he said. “Our team is battle-tested. We’ve already conducted two special elections this fiscal year, and we’re not new to this at all.”

According to the elections office, 1,167 residents of the 21,267 eligible voters in District 5 cast their ballot early as of midday Saturday.

Gilzean said he expects voters to show up in high numbers on Tuesday.

“District 5 residents have the opportunity to let their voices be heard and identify someone that can represent them on city council. Theres a total of 21,000 eligible voters to vote in District 5 and I think they’re going to come out in droves on Tuesday to let their voices be heard,” he said.

Through a new live stream feature, residents can watch the electoral process in real time.

Gilzean said once they kicked off the live stream pilot program, they had over 1,000 residents sign up to view the ballot counting process.

“I wanted to ensure that the community knew that they can trust the system, they can trust the process, and what better way to enhance that for us, than by providing another level of transparency?” Gilzean said.

Those who opt to vote by mail must drop off their ballot at the elections office by 7 p.m. The person elected as interim commissioner will begin serving when elected until the criminal case involving Hill is resolved, or the current term ends in January 2026.

You can vote early tomorrow beginning at 11 a.m. at the Supervisor of Elections office. Polls close at 3 p.m.

Election Day will be held on Tuesday, May 21. Polls will open at 7 p.m. with five precinct locations.