Election 2026 | Question of the Week, Week 1, District 4 (General Election only)
Why are you running? What are the planks of your platform? — July 10
Cape Coral City Council races are non-partisan races. Council members qualify in their respective districts but are elected at-large. This means all registered city voters may cast a ballot in each race regardless of where they live and the party to which they are affiliated, if any. This year’s Primary, on Aug. 18, features three Cape Coral City Council races: Mayor and the seats for District 1 and 6. District 4, with only two candidates, will be on the Nov. 3 General Election ballot.
Question of the Week: Why are you running? What are the planks of your platform?
The following candidates are running for Cape Coral City Council set for District 4: (This race will appear on the Nov. 3 General Election ballot only:
• Jennifer Nelson-Lastra (I)
I’m running because I care deeply about this community and believe leadership starts with service. I lead with a servant leader heart and have spent my career bringing people together, solving problems, and delivering results. My priorities are responsible budgeting, supporting public safety, investing in infrastructure, creating economic opportunity, and keeping Cape Coral affordable and family-focused. I believe in listening first, making tough decisions when needed, and leaving our city better than we found it.
• James Vargas
I’m running to bring transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility to Cape Coral. Residents deserve open government, a voice in major decisions, and leaders who own their mistakes and fix them. I will work to keep our city affordable by controlling taxes, fees, and wasteful spending while streamlining permitting, especially for Cape Coral businesses. I oppose large data centers, support protecting our water and natural preserves, and will defend personal freedoms by opposing expanded Flock camera surveillance. I also believe in honoring commitments to our youth by supporting organizations like the Cape Coral Rowing Club and investing in opportunities for future generations.