Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, the city’s longest-serving mayor, has confirmed that his seventh term will be his last. In a letter to city employees on Tuesday, Dyer made it official that he will not seek re-election in 2027, bringing an end to a tenure that has spanned more than two decades.
“I wanted you to hear from me that I was asked during a media interview today if I plan to run for another term as Mayor,” Dyer wrote, according to the Orlando Sentinel. “While this is the most rewarding job, my answer was — as I said when I was campaigning for this current term — that I do not plan to run again.”
Dyer first took office in 2003 and has since played a key role in shaping Orlando’s growth and development. In 2023, he won his seventh term with nearly 73% of the vote, defeating former Orlando City Commissioner Samuel Ings and other challengers. Dyer’s campaign fundraising efforts were formidable, raising over $480,000—more than ten times the amount collected by his nearest opponent.
Throughout his tenure, Dyer has championed policies aimed at economic development, infrastructure improvement, and community engagement. His official biography highlights his commitment to collaboration and unity, stating that he has worked to foster partnerships between government organizations, businesses, community groups, and residents to create a “vibrant, inclusive city that is focused on the future.”
Dyer’s confirmation that he will not seek another term has set the stage for the 2027 mayoral race. State Representative Anna Eskamani, a Democrat representing Orlando, has already announced her candidacy.
In a statement on X, Eskamani praised Dyer’s leadership, saying, “I want to thank Mayor Dyer for nearly 25 years of service to The City Beautiful. He has guided our city through significant growth, challenges, and achievements. Orlando’s future is bright, and I’m grateful for his contributions to getting us here.”
Dyer’s departure will mark the end of an era in Orlando politics. As the city looks ahead to its next chapter, the race to find his successor will likely draw significant attention and competition. For now, Dyer remains focused on serving out the remainder of his term, ensuring a smooth transition for the future leadership of Orlando.