ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Former Florida Gov. Charlie Crist told Spectrum News on Wednesday that he is considering a run for St. Petersburg mayor in 2026.
He said he is floating the idea to see what sort of reaction he will get from the public.
Speaking to Spectrum News and Political Connections anchor Ybeth Bruzual, he said, “Yes, I am seriously considering running for mayor of St. Petersburg.”
He hasn’t officially filed. He was governor from 2007-11, then served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2017-22. In that role, he represented the state’s 13th District.
Ken Welch is the incumbent mayor of St. Pete but hasn’t filed to run. He took office in 2022, replacing Rick Kriseman.
St. Pete Councilwoman Brandi Gabbard threw her name into the running this week. Community activist Maria Scrubbs is also in the mix.