Controversial Push-Poll Targets Hillsborough County Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez

A new push-poll has emerged that raises eyebrows with its controversial questions directed at Hillsborough County’s Democratic Property Appraiser, Bob Henriquez. Routinely regarded as a tactic of political manipulation, push-polls often serve to sway public opinion rather than gauge it, and this one appears no different.

Key Points of the Push-Poll

• False Accusations: The poll poses baseless allegations against Henriquez, including claims that he "became a millionaire as a politician," which contradicts his financial disclosure form that reveals a net worth of approximately $454,000 in 2023.
• Promotion of Tom Lee: Participants are explicitly encouraged to support Republican former State Senator Tom Lee instead. The poll presents Lee as an “experienced professional” with a history of passing tax cuts and maintaining balanced budgets.

Background on the Controversy

Shortly before the appearance of the push-poll, a Republican political operative in Tallahassee, Josh Cooper, filed public records requests for travel expenses concerning both Henriquez and Democratic Clerk of Courts Cindy Stuart. This move has raised questions about potential opposition research activities.

• Opposition Research: Cooper’s firm is known for specializing in messaging strategies and opposition research for various Republican figures, including Rick Scott. However, when questioned about the push-poll, Cooper asserted, “I’m not a pollster. I don’t know anything about any polls being done there.”

Political Aspirations

Tom Lee, who has not publicly commented on the push-poll, is considering a run for either the clerk or property appraiser position. He states, “It’s no secret I’ve been considering running… They are two jobs that fit my skill set.” Lee earlier attempted a run for clerk in 2020 but withdrew from the race.

Potential Candidates

• Tom Lee: Former State Senator with a significant political campaign fund.
• Victor Crist: Another former state senator weighing a potential candidacy for the clerk position, expressed surprise at the poll’s existence.
• Melony Williams: A newcomer and retired Army officer, she has already filed to run against Cindy Stuart.

Questions Raised by the Poll

The poll raises several misleading questions about Henriquez’s financial status and suggests unethical practices regarding property taxes. For instance:

• Property Tax Claims: One assertion is that Henriquez paid below $800 in property taxes due to a low assessment. Henriquez clarified that this related to a home bought during the 2000s economic downturn, a property he no longer owns.

His most recent tax bill was approximately $4,370, showcasing the disconnect between the poll’s claims and reality.

Reactions from Bob Henriquez

In response to the misleading nature of the push-poll, Henriquez defended his financial history: “There’s not one shred of truth in it.” He further expressed concern that Lee might have ties to the poll, hoping the former senator would disavow such tactics.

Conclusion

The push-poll against Bob Henriquez epitomizes the contentious political climate in Hillsborough County. As candidates like Tom Lee and Victor Crist consider entering the race, voter sentiment may be influenced not just by policy, but also by the shadowy tactics of campaign strategists.

For more detailed insights into political strategy and campaigns, check out this resource on opposition research, which outlines the tactics commonly used in political campaigning.

Stay Informed

As the political landscape evolves, keeping abreast of these developments is crucial. Whether through grassroots engagement or social media channels, voters can prepare for the upcoming elections by staying informed and challenging misleading narratives.