March 10, 2026 – City Councilmember Brandi Gabbard officially filed her candidacy for Mayor of St. Petersburg Tuesday. “I am running for Mayor because St. Petersburg is at a critical crossroads,” Gabbard wrote in the announcement. “Our residents deserve leadership that doesn’t just react to the challenges of today but proactively plans for the reality of tomorrow.” Gabbard will oppose incumbent mayor Ken Welch, who is seeking re-election. The 2026 St. Petersburg mayoral election will take place Aug. 18.
