Charlie Crist elected Mayor of St. Petersburg

Former Florida Governor Charlie Crist has won the mayoral election in St. Petersburg, according to unofficial returns from the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections. Crist holds a commanding lead over incumbent Ken Welch, with 53% of precincts reporting.

The campaign focused heavily on infrastructure, affordability, and the redevelopment of the former Tropicana Field site. While Welch emphasized the need for stormwater repairs and infrastructure upgrades following recent hurricanes, Crist campaigned on reducing city government spending, tax cuts, and pension reform. The candidates also held differing views on the Gas Plant District redevelopment, with Crist expressing interest in bringing the Tampa Bay Rays back to the site.

The race was noted for its intensity, involving debates over the city’s response to recent natural disasters and the financial implications of proposed city budget changes.