On September 14, 2025, an enthusiastic ensemble of Florida Keys Libertarians gathered from over 100 miles to formally affiliate the Libertarian Party of Monroe County. The event was a celebration of freedom and fellowship, hosted by LPF Region 14 Representative and Fundraising Committee Chair Marc Golob, with special guest and LNC Chair Steven Nekhaila, who is himself a Keys resident. Steven graciously opened his family-owned restaurant for the gathering, picking up the tab for a round of drinks and appetizers as the group shared food, liberty-minded conversation, and laughter.

At the meeting, Casey Watkins of Islamorada was elected as Chair. A former candidate for Islamorada Village Council and an active voice in the Keys’ thriving food and beverage community, Casey embodied the entrepreneurial, independent spirit that defines our movement. Mike Kane of Summerland Key was elected as Vice Chair, bringing both experience and enthusiasm to the new affiliate. A longtime Libertarian and former candidate in Virginia, Mike previously served in Florida as a Regional Representative and officer in the former Libertarian Party of Monroe County. Danielle Davis of Key Largo was elected to the dual role of Secretary-Treasurer, bringing strong business experience and local roots as the owner of DDetails LLC. The meeting was filled with moments of hope for the future, none brighter than when FIU student Joshua Espinosa registered to vote for the very first time to cheers of “JOSH! JOSH! JOSH!” from the room.

Tragically, just two weeks later, Casey Watkins passed away suddenly after a stroke. The Keys lost a bright light, and our party lost a passionate voice for liberty. Casey’s warmth, humor, and joy made him impossible to forget. He had a gift for making everyone feel like the most important person in the room. He loved his community deeply, serving in countless local organizations, and lived by the principle that true freedom begins with helping others live their best lives.

Casey Watkins, just after he was elected Chair of the Libertarian Party of Monroe County, with Marc Golob, LPF Region 14 Representative & Fundraising Chair

Those who knew Casey describe him as a man of unstoppable optimism and compassion, a living example of how liberty flourishes through kindness and voluntary cooperation. His dream was to help build a strong Libertarian presence in the Florida Keys, uniting neighbors around shared values of freedom, responsibility, and respect.

To those registered as Libertarians in Monroe County, we invite you to help carry Casey’s torch forward. The best way to honor his memory is to continue what he started by joining the effort to officially affiliate the Libertarian Party of Monroe County and stepping up to serve on its Executive Committee.

A GoFundMe has been set up to assist Casey’s partner, Megan Scallan, as she navigates this difficult time. Those wishing to support her may do so here: Supporting Megan After the Loss of Casey Watkins

Marc Golob
[email protected]
LPF Region 14 Representative

Danielle Davis, elected as Secretary-Treasurer of the new affiliate, LNC Chair Steven Nekhaila, Casey Watkins, and Marc Golob

Seated Joshua Espinosa, a brand new registered Libertarian, surrounded by a supportive group of Libertarians welcoming him to the family.