4th of July Parade of Politicians - WMBB News 13 - The Panhandle's News Leader

Being an election year, the Annual 4^th of July Celebration Parade in Lynn Haven Wednesday was all about patriotism, politicians and persuasion. But that is what residents expected, as the August primary is right around the corner, and contentious races, like Supervisor of Elections, State Attorney and School Board will be decided.  

"It's a great parade. There are lots and lots of people always at the Lynn Haven parade. It's an opportunity for a politician to show his strength and the supporters he has and basically to be seen," said 14^th Judicial Circuit State's Attorney candidate, Jim Appleman.  

For the 14^th Judicial Circuit State's Attorney's race, voters will decide between former State Attorney Jim Appleman and current State Attorney Glenn Hess.  

"This is an opportunity for the campaign to get out and celebrate the true meaning for the 4^th of July, our independence, our freedom, all of the sacrifices that our soldiers are making for us everyday," said Hess' Chief Assistant, Greg Wilson.  

Those sacrifices Wilson speaks of hits home for the Hess camp, as the State Attorney's son, Carter Hess, was recently injured in Afghanistan.  

"The family is doing great. They still need your prayers and support. They are on their way to Walter Reed waiting for Carter's arrival," Wilson added.  

But back home, the Hess supporters and Appleman backers will be at parades all across Northwest Florida, as they only have 4 days until voters cast their ballots in the August Primary.  

"It's right around the corner from the election and the people that come out are horrendous in Lynn Haven," Appleman said.  

But did all the campaigning at the parade have an affect on residents? 

"It really doesn't, my opinion is already pretty much been made," said resident Percy Thomas.  

 "I don't think it really makes a difference in the election, you have to see what they stand for and this doesn't tell you anything that they stand for," added resident Dave Smith. 

"I just come to expect them here but I don't know if it really makes a difference or not, but it's nice to see them out," said resident Kim Guynn.  

Early voting for the primary election is on August 4^th-11^th from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Election Day is August 14^th.