Welch’s campaign cited Castor’s close work with the St. Petersburg mayor on regional priorities affecting transportation, housing, and economic development

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Tampa Mayor Jane Castor is officially endorsing St. Pete Mayor Ken Welch in his bid for reelection in the 2026 race.

In her endorsement, Castor highlights strong regional support for Welch’s leadership and continued vision for St. Pete after working closely together on key issues across the Tampa Bay area.

Mayor Castor provided this statement in her endorsement:

“Mayor Ken Welch has been a thoughtful, collaborative leader for St. Petersburg and a strong partner for our entire region. He leads with integrity, puts people first, and understands how to bring communities together to get things done. St. Petersburg is stronger because of his leadership, and I’m proud to support his re-election.”

Welch’s campaign says the mayor has worked closely with Castor’s on issues such as transportation, housing and economic growth. 

“I’m grateful to Mayor Castor for her partnership and support,” Welch said in a statement. “The Tampa Bay region succeeds when we work together, and I’m proud of the progress we’ve made by building strong relationships across our cities. As we look ahead, I’m focused on continuing to create opportunity, expand affordable housing, and ensure St. Petersburg remains a city where everyone can thrive.”

Since taking office in 2022, Welch has emphasized equitable economic development, infrastructure investment and housing affordability.

Castor’s endorsement adds to a growing list of labor, elected officials, and community leaders backing Welch’s re-election bid.

The Tampa mayor’s endorsement also comes two days after former Florida governor Charlie Crist announced his bid for St. Pete mayor.

Additionally, Brandi Gabbard, a current council member of St. Pete’s City Council, is also running for the mayoral position. 

Maria Scruggs, Jim Large, Paul Congemi and Kevin Batdorf also filed their documents to run for mayor in St. Pete.

Residents of St. Pete will be able to vote in the Primary Election of Aug. 18 for one of the candidates running for mayor. If no candidate gets over 50% of the vote, there will be a runoff election on Nov. 3.