ORLANDO, Fla. – Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings announced Friday that he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer and is suspending his campaign for Florida governor as he begins treatment.
Demings made the announcement with his family by his side, revealing that doctors informed him of the diagnosis earlier this week.
The news sent shockwaves through Central Florida and beyond, prompting an outpouring of support from residents, county employees and community members who have worked alongside the longtime public servant.
Many expressed surprise at the announcement and disappointment that Demings will no longer continue his bid for governor.
“I was very surprised,” one resident said.
“It’s surprising to hear what happened to him and that he won’t be running anymore,” another community member added.
Despite the diagnosis, Demings said he remains committed to serving as Orange County mayor through the remainder of his term, which ends in November.
At the Orange County Administration Building, where Demings maintains his office and regularly attends commission meetings, employees described him as a dedicated leader whose diagnosis came as a shock.
“I just think it was really shocking. No one knew, and it’s really hard to hear,” one worker said.
Demings was sworn in as Orange County mayor in 2018 after a long career in public service that spans more than four decades. His career includes serving as Orlando police chief and Orange County sheriff, where he became known for breaking barriers.
Employees who regularly interact with Demings said they never suspected he was dealing with a serious health issue.
“He is always so kind and sincere with everyone he meets. You would never know that he was going through that,” one employee said.
Others offered prayers and well wishes as he prepares for treatment.
“I get very sad about him, and I wish for him to get better,” one resident said.
While stepping away from the governor’s race, Demings emphasized that he intends to continue leading Orange County throughout his treatment.
“He is a dedicated member of Orange County, and he wants to continue to be the mayor,” another employee said. “I’m not surprised to hear that.”
Demings has not publicly detailed his treatment plan but said his immediate focus is on his health while continuing to fulfill his responsibilities as mayor.