Attorney Melton Little has announced his candidacy in 2026 for the House District 71 seat held by Will Robinson Jr., who cannot run again due to term limits.
In his candidacy announcement, Little is described as “a conservative man of faith, who keeps a concealed carry permit, believes strongly in individual rights, fiscal responsibility, less government and the power of local government.”
Little, a Republican, grew up in Bradenton, graduating from Bayshore High School in 1979. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Samford University, a law degree from Cumberland Law School and a master’s of law degree from Hofstra.
He returned to Bradenton to practice law, as well as work in real estate. He’s currently managing partner of Kallins, Little and Brosious Hardball Law in Palmetto.
Little’s website is meltonforhouse.com.
Kristen Truong, also a Republican, announced her candidacy for the District 71 seat in April. She grew up in Bradenton, earned a bachelor’s degree in international studies at the University of South Florida and a master’s in public administration at American University.
Her statement on her website — votekristen.com — reads, “The opportunity to serve a community that I’ve called home my entire life is not a responsibility I take lightly. I will never stop fighting for the conservative values that make our county and state the best place to live and grow a family.”
Truong is the wife of Manatee County Commissioner Tal Siddique, R-District 3.
— Lisa Neff
AMI qualifying ahead
Qualifying to run for elected offices on Anna Maria Island opens in August.
Qualifying in Anna Maria will be noon Aug. 18-noon Aug. 29.
Qualifying in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach will be noon Aug. 25-noon Aug. 29.
The offices up for election in Anna Maria include three commission seats for two-year terms.
In Bradenton Beach, there will be three commission seats — two for two-year terms and one one-year term — and the mayoral post up for election.
Holmes Beach’s election will include three two-term commission seats.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4.
For more information, go to votemanatee.gov or call the Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office at 941-741-3823.
Email announcements to lisa@islander.org.