Two rookie politicians were sworn in as Gainesville City Commissioners today at noon, along with recently re-elected commissioner Thomas Hawkins.
Former Navy pilot and registered Republican, Todd Chase, defeated incumbent Lauren Poe in the District 2 race.
Community activist and registered Democrat, Susan Bottcher, defeated Rob Zeller and will fill the District 3 seat.
City Commissioners are elected for a three year non-partisan term on the six person commission, chaired by the mayor which is also a non-partisan office.
There has not been a Republican on the commission since 2008.