Hagan, 50, is a pro-business conservative who has emerged as a leading voice on the board. Though associated most recently with the efforts to build the Tampa Bay Rays a new stadium in Tampa, Hagan has spent much of his time looking to improve the quality of county services. He is a strong supporter of parks and youth programs, and he has grown into a proponent for cooperative efforts at the regional level. He is a strong animal welfare proponent.

Carol Whitmore has demonstrated her committment to the doctrine of no kill shelters and no more homeless pets. She has been an outspoken advocate for animal welfare at commission meetings.