2026 Elections for Judge in Florida’s 2nd Judicial Circuit

The ACLU of Florida does not endorse or oppose candidates, but wants you to make an informed decision.

Two important judge races are on the August 18, 2026 ballot in Tallahassee and the Big Bend. Judges in this circuit have the power to rule on cases that impact your freedoms and peoples’ lives statewide.

The courts are often the last line of defense for our rights, so it is important to know who is running for judge.

WHERE ARE THESE RACES?

The 2nd Judicial Circuit covers Tallahassee and the surrounding Big Bend area – Leon, Gadsden, Wakulla, Jefferson, Franklin, and Liberty Counties.

WHO CAN VOTE:

All voters residing in these six counties, regardless of party, can vote in these judicial races. The courts matter and so does your vote during this election.

THE CANDIDATES:

Compare the candidates for these two circuit judge races on the August 2026 ballot. Click a candidate's photo or name below to learn more about the candidates.

Stephanie Cager

• Attorney working in children’s welfare as Senior Vice President of Legal Affairs at the Children’s Home Society of Florida
• Previously a Chief Legal Counsel at the Florida Department of Health
• Endorsed by the Leon County Democratic Party

Jason Jones

• Appointed as judge by Governor Ron DeSantis
• Previously General Counsel of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement during the Ron DeSantis and Rick Scott administrations
• Member of the Federalist Society, conservative legal organization

Rashad Green

• Attorney practicing in criminal defense and personal injury
• President-elect of the Tallahassee Barristers Association, minority attorneys’ group
• Endorsed by the Leon County Democratic Party

Lee Marsh

• Appointed as judge by Governor Rick Scott
• Previously Bureau Chief of Corrections Litigation at the Florida Department of Legal Affairs, defending the state government under Attorney General Pam Bondi
• Endorsed by the Big Bend Police Benevolent Association