Buddy Dyer

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John H. "Buddy" Dyer is the current mayor of Orlando, Florida, and member of the United States Democratic Party.

He began his political career after serving as an attorney and lawyer following his graduations from Brown University and the law school of the University of Florida.

[edit] Dyer as state senator

Dyer's first run for political office was in 1992 for Florida's State Senate district 14, which consisted of Orlando and Sanford, FL. Dyer had two democratic primary opponents. The first was Candice "Candy" Crawford, sister of former Florida Agriculture Commissioner Bob Crawford and political pundit Craig Crawford. The second was Tim Adams, a local business owner.

Dyer won the primary, but failed to get the 50% needed to avoid a runoff. Dyer received 44% of the vote, while Crawford received 39%. Adams received 17%, and was eliminated.

The runoff between Dyer and Crawford was highly concentrated in the African-American communities of Orlando. Dyer received the support of many of the local churches as well as the endorsement of Tim Adams and Dotti Wynn (loser of the district's Republican primary). Crawford relied on local politician, like State Representative Alzo Reddick.

Dyer won the runoff 54% to 44% for Crawford.

He continued to the general election where he faced Republican Steve DeMino. Dyer won the general election 56% to 46% for DeMino.

He was subsequently re-elected in 1996 and 2000. In addition, he served as state Senate Democratic leader for three years.

[edit] Dyer as mayor

He was first elected mayor on February 25, 2003 in a special election after Glenda Hood was tapped to be Florida's Secretary of State.

Dyer is known for advocating a new performing arts center for Orlando and a new arena for the Orlando Magic. He has recently cooperated with Orange County, Florida Mayor Rich Crotty to propose a bill that would let tax money be used to fund an arena.

He was re-elected in 2004 in a regular election, narrowly avoiding a runoff with challenger Ken Mulvaney. Mulvaney subsequently alleged election fraud by Dyer. An investigation into the matter by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement led a grand jury to bring charges against the mayor, his campaign manager, and an election consultant for absentee ballot fraud. He was suspended by Governor Jeb Bush in accordance with the Florida Constitution. Later, charges were dropped and he was reinstated as mayor.