Mark Heggestad for Congress Launches “Walkin’ CD‑5”

A Three‑Day Coastline Community Walk to Connect with Voters Across Northeast Florida

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 1, 2026

Contact:
Mark Heggestad for Congress
mark.heggestad@heggestadforcongress.com

Mobile: 904-337-9081
www.heggestadforcongress.com 

Mark Heggestad for Congress Launches “Walkin’ CD‑5”

A Three‑Day Coastline Community Walk to Connect with Voters Across Northeast Florida

JACKSONVILLE, FL — The Mark Heggestad for Congress campaign today announced Walkin’ CD‑5, a three‑day, approximately 39‑mile coastline community walk from Hanna Park in Jacksonville to Lincolnville in St. Augustine. The walk will take place June 25, 26, and 27 — rain or shine.

Inspired by Lawton Chiles’ 1970 Walkin’ Lawton campaign, which covered 1,003 miles over 91 days and introduced him to voters across Florida, Walkin’ CD‑5 brings that same grassroots, people‑first spirit to Northeast Florida. As a longtime football official who works with high school, college, and professional teams across the region, Heggestad enters the campaign with deep familiarity with local communities and a record of showing up where teamwork, discipline, and public trust matter.

Heggestad will walk through beach communities, conservation areas, and historic neighborhoods, meeting voters face‑to‑face while highlighting the natural beauty, environmental importance, and layered history of Florida’s 5th Congressional District. The walk will feature several short‑form videos in a Stories Along the Shore series, showcasing places that define Northeast Florida — from coastal habitats and working waterways to civil rights landmarks and iconic local gathering spots.

To hear from voters about high costs and other issues impacting FL‑CD5 — and what we can do together about them in Congress — Mark is focusing this walk on the rising cost of living, from groceries to gas, and the need for more good‑paying jobs across Northeast Florida. Voters are also raising concerns about protecting voting rights and ensuring every eligible voter can participate without barriers. These conversations are shaping a campaign grounded in listening and delivering real solutions for the people of FL‑CD5.

“Walkin’ CD‑5 is about showing up, listening, and earning trust the old‑fashioned way — one conversation at a time,” said campaign manager Robin O’Neill. “This walk reflects Mark’s belief that public service begins with being present and listening to the needs of our community while demonstrating the stamina and commitment it takes to represent everyone. It’s also an important milestone in building the resources we need to compete through the primary and beyond.”

The campaign will release additional event details, public participation opportunities, and media availability in the coming weeks. Supporters, volunteers, and community members are encouraged to join the walk — especially the final leg into St. Augustine — and the culminating celebration in Lincolnville.

Mark will have media availability during the walk talk about the issues impacting FL-CD 5 and report back what he is hearing from voters.

About Mark Heggestad for Congress

Mark Heggestad for Congress is building a grassroots campaign centered on direct voter contact, community engagement, and a forward‑looking vision for Florida’s 5th Congressional District. Walkin’ CD‑5 is part of that effort to connect the campaign’s message to the people and places that shape Northeast Florida.