James Stockton is a leader whose influence spans the spiritual and community spheres. A native of Columbus, Ohio, Stockton was raised in a home grounded in strong moral and religious values, which laid the foundation for his life of service. As the Senior Pastor of Greater New Hope Church in Ocala, Florida, and the Presiding Bishop of the Tabernacle of Praise International Church (TOPIC), he has dedicated his life to serving others through faith and action.

 

In his pastoral assignment, Stockton’s Greater New Hope Church leadership has been transformative for the community. Since assuming the role of Senior Pastor in 2015, he has initiated several impactful programs, including a monthly "pop the trunk" food distribution event that served over 900 families during COVID-19 lockdowns, utility assistance partnerships benefiting nearly 500 households, and the establishment of an HIV/AIDS support location in collaboration with the Marion County Health Department. The church has also become a hub for the annual Toys for Tots program, ensuring that children in the community receive gifts during the holidays, and has contributed to food security by creating community garden plots on church grounds.

 

In addition to his pastoral duties, Stockton has made significant contributions to broader community efforts. He serves as the Chair of the Board of Governors for the Marion County Florida Continuum of Care on Homelessness. He is actively involved in advisory councils focusing on cultural learning, affordable housing, and land development. His work has always been guided by a deep commitment to social justice, reflected in his previous role as the President of the Marion County branch of the NAACP.

 

James Stockton’s influence extends beyond the local community through his leadership as Presiding Bishop of the Tabernacle of Praise International Church (TOPIC). This reformation has a global reach, with ministries in the United States, Chile, Peru, and Uganda, where it supports a seminary school and an orphanage. His dedication to education is evident in his lifelong pursuit of learning, having attended multiple institutions, including West Virginia State University, where he served as the Director of Student and Special Programs. He continues to advocate for educational initiatives, emphasizing the importance of supporting public and charter schools as part of a comprehensive approach to education reform.

 

James Stockton’s campaign for the U.S. House of Representatives for Florida District Six is built on the "HERE" platform, which stands for Healthcare, Education, Rights of Women, and Environmental Energy. He is committed to fighting for:

 

Healthcare:  Preserving Social Security, increasing funding for mental health and substance abuse initiatives, lowering prescription drug costs, and enhancing the Affordable Health Care initiative.

 

Education: Involving educators in developing best practices, enhancing early childhood education, providing affordable childcare, and supporting high-performing public charter and vocational institutions.

 

Rights of Women: Advocating for women’s reproductive rights, equal pay, and ending human trafficking.

 

Environmental Energy: Supporting green and renewable energy legislation, making green energy affordable, and securing funding for jobs and educational fields focused on renewable energy.

 

When elected, Bishop Stockton will endeavor to protect Social Security and Medicare, ensuring these programs remain secure for all Americans. His campaign is a natural extension of his lifelong mission to serve others, and he is ready to bring his vision, experience, and unwavering dedication to Washington. "It's not about me, but about you and the community," he says, embodying the spirit of service that has defined his life and career.