Susan Bottcher and Rob Zeller don’t seem to have much in common.
Bottcher identifies herself as a Democrat; Zeller is a registered Republican. She wants to create jobs by funding projects like Innovation Gainesville. He wants to cut back on government spending and mainly fund roads and public safety.
So it may not come as much of a surprise to hear that they both donated to candidates in other races who belong to their respective parties.
Although the Gainesville City Commission race is nonpartisan, the two District 3 candidates have shown their politics through their platforms.
They donated to candidates in other races — candidates they could work alongside if they are elected in March.
Bottcher donated $150 to Lauren Poe, who is running for District 2, and $150 to Thomas Hawkins, a candidate for an at-large seat. Both are currently commissioners.
Zeller donated $500 to Robert Krames, a candidate for District 3, and $750 to Don Marsh, another candidate for an at-large seat. He made multiple donations under his own name and the names of two of his businesses.
None of the other candidates donated to either Bottcher or Zeller.
In terms of donating on party lines, Zeller said that wasn’t his motivation. He said both Democrats and Republicans have donated to his campaign.
Zeller said since he owns businesses in town, he can comfortably donate to candidates with whom he identifies.
“I think we’re similar people,” he said of Krames and Marsh.
Bottcher, however, said politics do play a role, even in nonpartisan races.
“I think really most people will agree that there is no such thing as a no-party race,” she said.
Commissioner Poe, who received a donation from Bottcher, said politics usually play a role with donations because activists on both sides donate. But he also added that citizens don’t always vote based on party affiliation for local elections.
“I don’t think that translates as much into voting,” he said.
Both Zeller and Bottcher said the lack of financial support from like-minded candidates is probably tied to the poor economy.
Bottcher said she understands that not everyone has the ability to donate.
“It’s tight times,” she said. “I know they support me in spirit.”
She also said since Hawkins and Poe are currently commissioners, they can’t show bias by donating.
Commissioner Poe said he appreciates Bottcher’s support but doesn’t want to burn any bridges.
“You don’t know who you get to work with later on,” he said.
