Welcome to my campaign website! I am Karl Cieslak, the Democratic nominee for the Florida House of Representatives in District 54. With a solid commitment to public service and a vision for positive change, I aim to represent the people of Dade City, Zephyrhills, Saint Leo, San Antonio, and Wesley Chapel with integrity and dedication.
Early Life and Background
I was born to a family dedicated to service. My father, a retired Air Force veteran, and my mother, a registered nurse, instilled in me the values of responsibility, independence, and community service from an early age. Growing up as an only child, their commitment to serving others profoundly influenced my path and instilled a strong sense of duty in me.
Professional Journey
For nearly 18 years, I have proudly called Florida my home. My professional background is rooted in the hospitality industry, where I have gained extensive experience in hotel management and human resources. Most recently, I served as the Senior HR Manager at Mainsail Lodging and Development, overseeing the HR operations of the Fenway Hotel in Dunedin and the Epicurean Hotel in Tampa. In this role, I led initiatives to improve workplace culture and employee satisfaction, demonstrating my commitment to fostering positive environments.
Community Involvement
Beyond my professional career, I have always been deeply involved in my local community. I volunteer and serve as a leader at my local Episcopal church, contributing to various initiatives and outreach programs. As a newly active member of the Democratic Party of Florida, I participate in local party meetings, engage in voter outreach, and volunteer for various Democratic campaigns. These experiences have reinforced my belief in the power of community and the importance of giving back.
Vision and Values
My political beliefs are just left of center, emphasizing the importance of a social safety net for those who fall on hard times while also maintaining fiscal responsibility. My campaign focuses on several key areas:
Lowering Insurance Costs: Addressing the runaway costs of homeowners and auto insurance premiums to ensure all Floridians can afford necessary coverage.
Women's Reproductive Rights: Fighting for women's reproductive health rights and ensuring access to comprehensive healthcare services.
Quality Education: Advocating for better funding and resources for schools to ensure every child has access to a high-quality education.
Economic Equality: Promoting policies that support economic equality and ensure everyone has the opportunity to prosper.
Why I’m Running
My decision to run for the Florida House of Representatives is deeply personal. After the profound impact of my mother's death in June 2023, I was motivated to be an advocate for the voiceless and those afraid to speak up. My campaign is built on the foundation of her advocacy and the courage and conviction my father taught me. I believe our community deserves a representative who prioritizes the needs of all constituents and is committed to creating a brighter future for our district. With your support, we can significantly impact and drive forward a progressive agenda that benefits everyone.
Join Me
I invite you to join me on this journey toward positive change. Together, we can achieve great things for District 54. Whether through volunteering, contributing to the campaign, or simply spreading the word, your support is crucial to our success.
Thank you for visiting my campaign website. I look forward to engaging with you and working together to create a better future for our community.