Lee County Supervisor of Elections Tommy Doyle retires, leaving successor unknown

LEE COUNTY, Fla. —

Lee County Supervisor of Elections Tommy Doyle is retiring after nine years, leaving the position open for a new appointee by the governor.

Doyle expressed mixed emotions about his departure, saying, "Bittersweet. I'm feeling excited about the future and feeling sad about leaving my team."

He announced his early retirement to spend more time with his wife, Donna.

Until the governor appoints a new supervisor, Chief Deputy Bernie Feliciano will serve as the acting supervisor of elections.

Feliciano, who has been with the office since she was 19, has 39 years of experience. Doyle said, "I can tell you the office is in good hands. Bernie has 39 years of experience."

Doyle emphasized the importance of teamwork in the office, stating, "It's not really running itself. It's a team." He also noted Feliciano's qualifications, saying, "She has the capability and the experience and the skills to be the supervisor of elections if she wanted to."

Lee County Commissioner Cecil Pendergrass has publicly expressed interest in the position, but Doyle will not endorse any candidate, explaining, "I have too many friends to endorse. I don't want to endorse somebody and make another friend upset. So, I'm not endorsing anybody."

Doyle offered advice to his successor, saying, "Come in and don't make big changes. Go and meet every person who is on the staff."

Gov. Ron DeSantis' office has not yet responded to inquiries about Doyle's replacement, and there is no clear deadline for the appointment.

DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.