ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Former Florida governor and congressman Charlie Crist has won the race for mayor of St. Petersburg, unseating incumbent Mayor Ken Welch in a closely watched runoff election.
The campaign focused on several major issues facing the city, including housing affordability, storm preparedness, infrastructure improvements, and the future redevelopment of the former Tropicana Field site.
Welch, seeking a second term, campaigned on continuing redevelopment efforts and addressing rising costs for residents. Crist argued that his extensive experience in public service would bring a new approach to city government, with a focus on fiscal responsibility and economic growth.
The result marks a political comeback for Crist and signals a leadership change for one of Florida’s fastest-growing cities as it navigates a period of significant development and investment.