Name: Jon M. Maples
Campaign website: VoteMaples.com
Date, place of birth: 7/9/1982, Panama City Florida
Education: BS in Computer Information Systems from Palm Beach Atlantic University
Occupation: Financial Advisor, Northwestern Mutual
Work history for the past 15 years. List in reverse chronological order.
Financial Advisor, Northwestern Mutual (Oct 2012-Present)
Equity Trader, 1st Discount Brokerage (Oct 2008-July 2012)
Why are you running, and what specifically makes you the better candidate?
I moved to Palm Beach County as a student-athlete, got married, fell in love with the community, and decided that my wife and I would raise our family here. That’s what I’ve done over the last 20+ years. As a businessman, I have first-hand experience dealing with the issues that impact voters in District 87. I know that we need to work to reduce insurance premiums, find ways to deliver meaningful tax relief, all while protecting essential service levels — especially as it relates to our transportation and water infrastructure.
Describe one action you would support that would reduce property insurance premiums in Florida.
The state delivered insurance reforms a few years ago. There are indications that these are addressing the business climate that insurers said were so problematic and providers are enjoying record profits. Those profits need to be shared with consumers in the form of rate reductions, and the legislature needs to hold the providers feet to the fire in that regard.
The Legislature in 2026 will consider several property tax reduction proposals. One would eliminate property taxes on all homesteaded properties. Would you support or oppose this and why?
I support giving Floridians meaningful tax relief. I’m open to shifting some of the tax burden to our booming tourism industry, but think we need to have an honest conversation about the programs and services that are funded through local government and whether that’s the most appropriate use of tax dollars.
The Legislature in 2026 will consider a bill (HB 133) allowing 18-year-olds to buy rifles and shotguns. The age was raised from 18 to 21 after the Parkland shooting. Would you vote for or against this bill and why?
I support protecting the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding adults.
Governor Ron DeSantis and Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo support eliminating all childhood vaccine mandates in Florida. Do you agree or disagree and why?
I support parental rights. We should not let government stand between a parent and doctor making the best health care decision for their child.
Do you support or oppose an effort to redraw boundaries for Florida congressional districts in 2026, and why?
I would be open to reviewing lawful means of improving congressional representation in Florida. So far, I have not seen any proposals or case law that establishes a pathway.
House District 87 hugs the coastline. How will you support climate change adaptation in the multiple coastal municipalities in your district?
Encouraging home-hardening and resiliency measures helps us prepare for future storms and lower pooled risk that drives up insurance rates.
The Legislature in recent years has added many new exemptions to the public records law to keep information secret, such as for state university presidential searches. Would you have voted for or against this bill and why?
I believe in transparency and accountability — even in state university presidential searches.
Describe in detail one economic, social or demographic factor about your district that sets it apart from all others.
District 87 has some of the most expensive real estate in all of America, and possibly the wealthiest voting population. Despite the vast personal wealth concentrated in our coastal communities, there are still pressing affordability concerns in more blue-collar municipalities like North Palm Beach and Lake Worth Beach. We need to focus on lifting people up, providing relief for the affordability crisis, and working to improve residents’ quality of life. I grew up playing football and basketball, so I understand how to work well on a team. Making life better in District 87 is a team sport, and winning will require collaboration across all levels of government.
Have you been arrested, charged or convicted of a crime, had an adjudication withheld or had a matter sealed or expunged? If yes, please explain.
No.
Have you been a plaintiff or defendant in a civil action, including bankruptcy or foreclosure, or had a restraining order issued against you? If so, please explain.
No.
