CANDIDATES CORNER
Candidates Corner is a resource provided by the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce to share information with our 1,400+ members and the broader community. All content featured here is supplied directly by individual candidates to help inform voters about their priorities, background, and vision for St. Petersburg and Pinellas County.
An informed voting public strengthens our community, and accessible information supports that goal. To check your voter registration status, click here.
Interested in meeting the candidates who will appear on the primary ballot in St. Petersburg? Join us at our Meet the Candidates event to connect with them in person.
Our Commitment to Nonpartisanship
The St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce is a nonpartisan organization and does not endorse or oppose any candidate or political party. Identical participation opportunities were offered to all candidates, including the option to provide responses in writing or by video.
Candidates interested in being featured may contact Gracie Glover at advocacyintern@stpete.com.
2026 Election Season Education Opportunities
FRIDAY FORUMS
These informal conversations will include candidate remarks, audience questions, and opportunities for attendees to engage directly with candidates in a conversational setting. Save the dates!
• August 28 | Mayoral and City Council Candidates
• September 18 | County and School District Candidates
• October 2 | Governor, State Senate, House Candidates
• October 16 | U.S. Congress and U.S. Senate Candidates
The forum on September 29 will feature an in-depth discussion led by subject matter experts examining two of the most significant measures facing voters this year: the Florida Property Tax Amendment and the City of St. Petersburg General Obligation Bond.
LOCAL OFFICES
St. Petersburg Mayor
Candidate Name: Kevin Batdorf
Campaign Website: batdorf4mayor.com/
Watch the video to see Kevin Batdorf's responses. All candidates were given the opportunity to submit a video.
Candidate Name: Charlie Crist
Campaign Website: charliecrist.com
The city of St. Petersburg cannot declare itself a complete success until all of its residents are enjoying that success. Right now, too many are being left behind by a city that’s on pause. An ongoing affordability crisis is leaving residents to make harsh financial decisions, sometimes choosing whether to eat or get medical care. That’s not only bad for St. Petersburg families, it’s bad for our local economy. When residents face tough financial times, they lack the disposable income needed to reinvest those dollars into the small, locally-owned businesses that are the lifeblood of our local economy. As Mayor, I will work to ensure an adequate supply of safe, affordable housing, while also prioritizing measures that promote vocational training and apprenticeship programs that allow everyone to obtain living-wage careers. And that starts with our youth, too. My campaign is also prioritizing youth opportunity, supporting those who are college-bound as well as those who have determined a different career path. No administration should pick winners and losers, and as Mayor I’ll ensure everyone has the ability to thrive regardless of zip code or family background. A thriving St. Petersburg means a thriving population. You simply cannot have one without the other.
Our small businesses are the engine that fuels our local economy. I believe in capitalism done right, and free market principles are undeniably a part of a business’ success or failure. But when hard times are upon us, as they are now with record inflation and soaring costs of everyday goods and services, local government has a responsibility to step in to help wherever and however possible. To be clear, this is not about hand outs, but as mayor I pledge to evaluate ways city policies can make it easier for businesses to thrive, and for job creators to call St. Pete home. The city’s permitting process is in shambles, creating an ideal starting point for meaningful reform. But just as no two businesses are exactly the same, city policies cannot be one-sized fits all. To ensure help is reaching businesses that need it, in the way that is needed, my administration will consistently reach out to the business community for input on needs, whether that’s a new policy or changing an old one. As Mayor, my door will always be open to those who have needs to share.
Candidate Name: Brandi Gabbard
Campaign Website: brandi4stpete.com/
My vision for St. Petersburg and Pinellas County is rooted in economic vitality, environmental resilience, and a commitment to ensuring that our growth never outpaces the infrastructure that supports it. St. Petersburg has a proud history of leading with innovative, forward-thinking policies, many of which I have been proud to champion in my last 9 years on City Council. As a business professional, I fundamentally believe City Hall must focus on fostering a thriving business community while protecting the unique neighborhood character that makes our city such an incredible place to live and work.
My long-time involvement with the Chamber, both before my time on City Council and continuously since, demonstrates my deep-seated commitment to collaboration and ensuring our business community always has a seat at the table. As Mayor, my office will serve as a collaborative, hands-on partner to our local business community, entrepreneurs, and regional stakeholders. We will prioritize modernization and return on investment for our core infrastructure, including wastewater, stormwater management, and coastal flood protection, so that our residents and businesses have a secure foundation to grow. By championing sensible economic development, workforce housing solutions, and modern multimodal transportation, the Mayor's office will ensure that local government delivers measurable results and maintains the trust of the people we serve.
Engaging the business community effectively means treating local employers and entrepreneurs as true partners rather than an afterthought. Throughout my career, both as a local business professional and a public servant, I have consistently ensured that the business community has a seat at the table from day one.
My track record demonstrates this commitment in action. When developing workforce initiatives and housing strategies, I have proactively brought the Chamber and business leaders into the process early to secure their direct input before policies are finalized. From working to cut red tape and streamline permitting processes to support our local shops and service providers, to my years of collaboration on workforce housing solutions and economic development, I know that government works best when it listens to the people driving our economy.
As Mayor, I will double down on this commitment. I will ensure the Chamber and our business community remain deeply integrated partners in our municipal planning, working collaboratively to tackle our most complex challenges and build a resilient, thriving economy for everyone.
Candidate Name: James Large
Campaign Website: jimlargeformayor.com
You cannot continue to put tomorrow’s development on yesterday’s infrastructure. I see infrastructure as the top priority for the next several years. It is the foundation of all we do. My vision is a St. Petersburg where families can afford to live, businesses can grow, INFRASTRUCTURE keeps pace, and residents TRUST their local government to deliver RESULTS .
As mayor, I will provide experienced and proven leadership, unite people around common goals, and ensure City Hall is accountable, transparent, and RESPONSIVE. I will strengthen partnerships with businesses, neighboring governments, schools, and community organizations to improve infrastructure, support jobs, modernize permitting, prepare for storms, and enhance public safety.
After a lifetime of service with St. Petersburg Fire Rescue, I know lasting success comes from proactive planning, solving problems early, and putting the whole community first. That is the leadership we need at City Hall.
The business community is one of our City’s greatest assets, and I believe businesses should be partners in solving problems—not just stakeholders consulted after decisions are made. The city should provide a platform in support of local businesses.
As mayor, I will bring together business leaders, neighborhood organizations, educators, nonprofits, and city staff to address our most pressing challenges, including infrastructure, workforce development, permitting, economic growth, disaster preparedness, and homelessness. My role is to set clear goals, encourage collaboration, and hold everyone accountable for results.
My experience leading a large public safety organization taught me that the best solutions come from partnerships built on trust, accountability, and measurable outcomes. By working together, we can strengthen our economy, improve quality of life, and build a more resilient St. Petersburg.
Candidate Name: Maria Scruggs
Campaign Website: mariaformayor.com
My vision for St. Petersburg is a city where every resident feels a genuine sense of belonging, where government is accountable, transparent, and focused on delivering measurable results. After more than forty years in public service, I have seen how strong leadership, clear roles, and disciplined management can transform systems and improve people’s lives. My vision centers on affordability, safe and clean neighborhoods, equitable economic opportunity, and a government culture grounded in performance, ethics, and public accountability.
My office will lead this vision by setting clear expectations, aligning departments with charter‑defined responsibilities, and establishing transparent performance standards for every major initiative. I will prioritize collaboration with City Council, strengthen community engagement, and ensure that decisions are driven by data, not politics. Through disciplined management and consistent communication, my office will model the accountability and professionalism needed to move St. Petersburg forward.
The business community is an essential partner in addressing St. Petersburg’s most significant challenges, from affordability and workforce development to transportation, public safety, and economic resilience. My approach is grounded in structured collaboration, transparency, and shared accountability. I will establish regular engagement forums with business leaders, small‑business owners, and industry associations to ensure their perspectives inform policy development and implementation.
I will also work to align public and private priorities through data‑driven initiatives such as cluster‑based economic development, workforce pipelines, and targeted support for small businesses. By creating clear expectations, measurable outcomes, and open communication channels, my office will foster a partnership where businesses can contribute expertise, innovation, and resources while the City provides coordination, policy alignment, and accountability.
This collaborative model ensures that St. Petersburg’s economic growth benefits residents, employers, and the broader region.
Candidate Name: Ken Welch
Campaign Website: kenwelch.com/
My vision is a St. Petersburg and Pinellas County where economic opportunity is shared, businesses can grow with confidence, families can afford to live where they work, and our community is prepared for the challenges of the future. Success isn't measured by growth alone. It's measured by whether people have access to good jobs, safe neighborhoods, attainable housing, reliable infrastructure, and a high quality of life.
Since taking office, we've focused on building that foundation. We've exceeded the halfway target of our 10-year Housing Opportunities for All Plan by creating and preserving more than 3,500 affordable and workforce housing units through completed projects and developments underway. We've supported redevelopment of underutilized properties, expanded accessory dwelling units, invested in neighborhood commercial corridors, and partnered with the private sector to increase housing supply while preserving affordability.
We've also strengthened public safety, reducing overall crime by 16 percent and recording the fewest homicides in St. Petersburg since 1967. At the same time, we've invested in innovative technologies like Drone as First Responder, while continuing to support our police officers and firefighters with the equipment and resources they need.
The storms of 2024 reinforced that resilience must be central to our future. Through our St. Pete Agile Resilience (SPAR) initiative, we've accelerated more than $545 million in infrastructure investments to modernize stormwater systems, strengthen utilities, improve flood protection, and prepare our city for future weather events. Those investments protect residents, businesses, and our local economy.
Economic opportunity also depends on developing talent. Programs like Future Ready Academy are preparing residents for careers with the City, while partnerships with employers, educational institutions, and workforce organizations are helping connect people to family-sustaining jobs in growing industries.
My role as Mayor is to continue bringing together local governments, employers, educational institutions, labor organizations, nonprofits, and community leaders around shared priorities. Government cannot solve every challenge alone, but it can create the conditions for innovation, investment, and collaboration. By continuing to make smart investments, maintaining fiscal discipline, and listening to stakeholders, we can ensure St. Petersburg remains one of the most desirable places in America to live, work, visit, and do business.
Partnership has defined my administration from day one. The business community isn't simply a stakeholder; it's an essential partner in creating solutions that benefit our entire region.
One of the best examples is housing. Through our Housing Opportunities for All Plan, we've worked closely with developers, financial institutions, nonprofit housing organizations, employers, and neighborhood leaders to accelerate the production and preservation of affordable and workforce housing. Those partnerships have allowed us to exceed key benchmarks while leveraging both public and private investment.
We've also partnered with businesses on workforce development through initiatives like Future Ready Academy, expanded opportunities for local and small businesses to compete for City contracts, and supported entrepreneurship through programs that provide technical assistance, access to capital, and neighborhood commercial revitalization.
Looking ahead, I believe our greatest opportunities are strengthening our resilience, preparing our workforce for emerging industries, improving transportation connections, expanding housing options, and supporting innovation in sectors like marine science, healthcare, financial services, manufacturing, and technology. Institutions such as the University of South Florida St. Petersburg, the Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, and the Tampa Bay Innovation Center are helping position our region as a leader in innovation, and City Hall must continue helping create the environment where those partnerships flourish.
My commitment is to maintain an open door and a collaborative approach. That means regular engagement with business organizations, listening before making decisions, removing unnecessary barriers where appropriate, investing strategically in infrastructure, and ensuring City government is responsive, predictable, and accountable.
When government provides stability and vision, businesses invest with confidence. And when businesses invest in our community, they create jobs, expand our tax base, strengthen neighborhoods, and help ensure every resident has the opportunity to succeed. That's the partnership I will continue building over the next four years.
St. Petersburg City Council
Watch the video to see Terri Balliet's responses. All candidates were given the opportunity to submit a video.
My vision for a thriving St. Petersburg and Pinellas County is one where all residents can live with dignity, provide for their families, and have the ability to engage with their government and community. I believe that the office of the City Council has a critical role to play in achieving that vision. My job is to work collaboratively to change or create policy that addresses barriers and opportunities to achieving this vision. Additionally, my job is to identify the city's role in the overall systemic change that will need to occur to further this vision and how I can advocate and coalition-build with county, regional, and state leaders.
As a small business owner, I believe that the business community has a vital role to play in addressing our region's most pressing challenges and opportunities. We face an affordability crisis that requires stakeholders from every sector to work together to address. Whether it is affordable housing, workforce development, infrastructure upgrades, or strengthening our social fabric, the business community needs to be part of our regional strategy. Access to higher-income jobs, opportunities for entrepreneurs, and smart growth are key components in addressing these challenges and are provided overwhelmingly by the business community.
My vision is a thriving St. Petersburg and Pinellas County where residents can afford to stay, feel safe in their neighborhoods, and trust the local government to handle the basics well. That means reliable utilities, better drainage and storm preparation, safer and cleaner public spaces, strong local businesses, and government offices that respond when people need help.
Too often, major projects receive attention while everyday problems remain unresolved. As a longtime business owner, I understand that delays, rising costs, and unanswered questions have real consequences for families and local businesses. City government should operate with that same sense of urgency.
As a City Council member, I will prioritize essential services and maintenance, make sure tax dollars are spent responsibly and transparently, and support the residents and small businesses that already call our community home.
My office will listen, follow up, and help people get clear answers instead of simply passing them from one department to another. I will also work closely with Pinellas County on shared challenges such as transportation, homelessness, public safety, storm preparation, and emergency response.
A thriving community is not simply one that keeps growing. It is one where residents and local businesses can succeed—and where people can see and feel that their government is working for them.
As a longtime business owner, I understand that local businesses create jobs, serve our neighborhoods, and provide opportunities for working families. A good business climate is not measured only by whether large companies can succeed. It is measured by whether a neighborhood business can open, hire, and grow without getting lost in City Hall.
I will involve businesses before policies are finalized through direct outreach and partnerships with chambers, neighborhood business groups, educators, and workforce organizations. Small and locally owned businesses must have a meaningful voice, not just major employers.
My office will work with the business community on practical challenges such as confusing permitting, rising costs, workforce shortages, transportation, and storm preparedness. Permitting must protect public safety, but it should also be understandable, predictable, and responsive.
I will also support apprenticeships, job training, local career opportunities, and a fair chance for qualified local businesses to earn city contracts. By working together early, we can strengthen neighborhoods, prepare for regional challenges, and create opportunities for residents throughout St. Petersburg and Pinellas County.
My vision for a thriving Saint Pete is to bolster opportunity and equity for everyone in St. Pete not just a few. I seek to do so by expanding upon affordable housing and commercial space initiatives, championing the arts as a vital and fundamental part of our city, investing in equitable workforce development, supporting our small business owners and entrepreneurs, providing tangible,compassionate solutions for our unhoused residents, and making our city more infra-structurally and environmentally sound.
St. Pete prides itself on being a safe haven for inclusiveness and I seek to expand upon that with policies that ensure every resident has the chance to succeed. As a queer, working class, woman of color I seek to be a voice for everyday people in St. Pete. However, I would be re-miss if I did not recognize the role that those that have already achieved success have in shaping our community and vow to work with those individuals to ensure that our city can keep seeing economic growth whilst improving the quality of life for all residents.
Workforce development is an important pillar of my campaign. I will engage the business community in creating talent pipelines, apprenticeships, and fellowships for high school and college students.
Additionally, I will work to bring well-paying and sustainable industries to our area to provide meaningful opportunity to St. Pete. I seek to expand upon our current business incubators to support small business owners and entrepreneurs, utilizing my background in sales, marketing, and community engagement to do so.
I will champion investment in our existing and up and coming business corridors to ensure they have the resources they need to continue operating in our community. Lastly, I will work to ensure developers are investing in tangible community benefits that will turn some of the urban blight we are seeing in our mixed-use residential and commercial spaces around.
Our city is filled with brilliant, mission-oriented business leaders who have the ability to change lives for the better as well as heighten our quality of life. They just need to feel and see that they are supported and as a seasoned coalition builder I will be calling on the business community to aid me in carrying out these initiatives.
Pinellas County Judge
Candidate Name: Nick Fiorentino
Political Race: 6th Circuit Court Judge, Group 10
Campaign Website: NickFiorentino.com
Unlike other elected offices, Judges do not pass legislation or policy. My goal as a judge if elected is to work hard for the people of Pinellas County. I will treat all who come before me with respect and dignity to assure that all sides are heard before a decision is made. All decisions will be based on the law and applied in an equal and fair manner. Fifty percent of the people who leave a courtroom are unhappy and my goal is that when they leave they understand clearly why the decision was made, that they were heard, and that they were treated fairly. It would also be my goal to make sure cases move through the courts so that justice is not delayed.
As a judge, you are limited as to what you can and cannot do based on the Judicial Canons. However, I believe it is important for judges to remain a part of the community once elected and to participate in judicial outreach and education. This will benefit the business community at large by having judges who are more present and willing to participate in community events.
Candidate Name: Zachariah Wade
Political Race: 6th Circuit Court Judge, Group 10
Campaign Website: wadeforjudge.com/
A thriving St. Petersburg and Pinellas County depends on strong institutions that people can trust, and our courts are an essential part of that foundation. Safe neighborhoods, thriving businesses, and strong communities all rely on a justice system that is fair, accessible, and maintains public confidence.
This requires experienced judges who understand the people and perspectives that enter a courtroom every day—from victims and defendants to families, business owners, law enforcement, and community members. Every person deserves to be treated fairly, with respect, and to have their case decided according to the law.
As County Court Judge, I will continue to strengthen public confidence in our courts by ensuring my courtroom operates efficiently, by making fair and impartial decisions grounded in the law, and by remaining engaged with the community I serve.
As a business owner, I understand the importance of economic growth and the vital role businesses play in strengthening our communities. I also understand the judiciary's important role in maintaining an environment where individuals, businesses, and communities can thrive by fostering confidence in a fair, impartial, and consistent court system.
Outside the courtroom, I will continue serving on community boards, volunteering, participating in civic and business events, and engaging with leaders throughout our region to better understand how the judiciary can serve our community.
Candidate Name: Elizabeth "Liz" Constantine
Political Race: 6th Circuit Court Judge, Group 39
Campaign Website: votelizforjudge.com
My vision is for the community to associate the judiciary with leaders they can trust, who will listen to them and who will make fair and impartial decisions grounded in the law.
As a prior resident of downtown St.Petersburg I am personally familiar with St. Petersburg's diverse culture. Additionally, as an assistant state attorney in Pinellas County, the majority of my major cases occurred in St. Petersburg. I therefore have personally interacted with many citizens, from victims to witnesses to defendants, their families, and community leaders and learned what their concerns with the legal system are. From this, I have learned how the judiciary can best answer these concerns.
I will bring integrity, approachability, and experience to the bench. The experiences from my personal life, my legal career, and my community involvement give me a unique ability to understand the weight of judicial decisions and the importance of treating all persons who appear before the court with fairness and respect. This perspective is invaluable.
I pledge to remain actively involved in the community and when possible inform the business community about the important role the judiciary plays in our region.
Candidate Name: Stefen Diskey
Political Race: 6th Circuit Court Judge, Group 39
Campaign Website: diskeyforjudge.com/
As a lifelong resident of this area, I have a personal stake in seeing St. Petersburg and Pinellas County thrive — I'm raising my own family here.
What I know from over a decade trying cases across this circuit: a community can't thrive without confidence in the rule of law. Contracts need to be enforced. Disputes need to be resolved fairly. And the courts need to apply the law the same way, every time, regardless of who's in front of them.
A judge doesn't set policy. That's not the role. The role is to be the steady, impartial hand that lets businesses, families, and individuals resolve their disputes and trust the outcome. I've spent my career in these courtrooms. I know what a well-run docket looks like, and I know how much that matters to the people and businesses who depend on this system every single day.
That's what I'd bring to the bench: consistency, efficiency, and the law applied as written.
As a judge, I cannot formally partner with or advocate for a group, including the business community. But I would stay engaged. I can show up, listen, and bring an understanding of how the court affects the people and businesses who depend on the judicial system.
Pinellas County Commissioner
To continue representing residents in a transparent and fiscally responsible way recognizing the unique challenges of our time regarding affordability, continued hurricane recovery, infrastructure resilience, and transportation challenges, ensuring an environment where families and business can thrive. The potential elimination of property tax creates an opportunity to discuss consolidation of smaller municipalities and fire service delivery with the potential for significant savings to taxpayers. The creation of a regional MPO between Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco will make the region far more competitive on federal grant applications for transformative transportation projects and enhance regional attractiveness for companies to start or re-locate their businesses here. The completion of a new county campus at Ulmerton & U.S. 19 will improve the interaction between residents and county government by centralizing functions in the heart of the county with the disposition of the county owned parcels in downtown Clearwater a catalyst for re-activation and re-development of Clearwater. "Penny V" will need to be on the 2028 ballot for voter approval. Creating the funding vision and list of projects for the next decade will be critical for the passage of this important source of funding for infrastructure, and affordable housing initiatives. On public safety, passing an Ebike ordinance, and a bill of rights for residents who are the victims of unscrupulous towing operators.
As an owner of a second-generation family business myself that started right here in Pinellas in 1983, I understand the dedication, blood, sweat and tears it takes to build a business from the ground up and contribute to the community along the way. Approaching every aspect of the job of County Commissioner through the lens of business efficiency, including regulatory framework, taxation and workforce development. It is our job to create the environment for business to thrive, then get out of the way. My door will always be open to meet with business owners, executives, chambers, and of course supporting Pinellas County Economic Development and St. Pete EDC.
David Glenn Jr. is not a career politician. He has worked hard all his life to achieve his goals and aspirations. Like many of you, he has a mortgage, drives an older car, and does his own laundry and shopping. As your next Pinellas County Commissioner, David will share his ideas and work with others to implement the innovative plans outlined below. Some of these strategies include investment in our community through Intelligent land development initiatives that will allow our property tax base to be increased while not increasing property taxes and the increased promotion of tourism into Pinellas County. The County can then take those revenues and reinvest them back into the community for the benefit of Pinellas County residents. Some of these would include needed infrastructure improvements, investment in local and County services such as public transit, parks & recreation, library services, building& zoning, animal rescue, adoption and rehabilitation services, affordable housing for teachers, first responders, seniors and veterans, and more.
The business community will benefit by getting a revised planning and zoning department to streamline development and being able to create more leasable area, whether it is retail, office, residential or a mixture of any of them. This will encourage increased spending and investment in our local communities. Additionally, the added tourism will also increase the spending within the county by bringing outside money into Pinellas County and then spent locally. It's all about "Building a Better Pinellas, a Better Future for all of us!"
Pinellas County School Board Member
Candidate Name: Lisa Cane
District: 2
My vision for a thriving St. Petersburg and Pinellas County is a community where families can afford to live, students receive a high-quality education, and local employers have access to a strong, homegrown workforce. That means strong public schools that are academically excellent, safe, and aligned with the skills our economy needs, alongside responsible planning for changing enrollment and long-term population trends in the Bay Area.
I would engage the business community as an active partner in solving our region’s challenges by building consistent, two-way communication between schools, local government, and employers. Businesses can help guide career and technical education programs so students are graduating with real-world skills that match workforce needs, especially in high-demand fields.
I would also expand internship, apprenticeship, and mentorship opportunities so students can connect learning to career pathways early. At the same time, I would work with employers to better understand workforce shortages and align education programs to support local economic growth.
Finally, I would support partnerships that strengthen our community as a whole—whether through workforce development, school-to-career pipelines, or collaborative solutions to challenges like transportation, housing affordability, and talent retention. The goal is a strong local economy supported by a strong public education system that prepares students to live and work here.
A thriving Pinellas County is one where families want to live, businesses want to invest, and students are prepared to succeed in school, work, and life. Strong public schools are essential to that vision.
As a School Board member, my role will be to support and retain great teachers, strengthen community partnerships, and ensure students have access to the academic, technical, and life skills needed for the future. By building trust in public education and working collaboratively with families, educators, businesses, and community organizations, we can create opportunities that benefit both students and our community.
Partnerships have been a central theme of my campaign because no single organization can solve our community's challenges alone. Throughout my career, I have worked to bring together schools, businesses, nonprofits, workforce organizations, and government agencies around shared goals. As a School Board member, I would continue building those relationships to expand career pathways, mentorship opportunities, internships, and support services for students and families. Strong partnerships allow us to leverage community resources, strengthen our workforce pipeline, and create opportunities that benefit both students and our region.
Public schools shape the community ecosystem we all live in. Property values, neighborhood stability, workforce quality, and even local business growth are all tied to how strong the public school system is. We need an ample and viable workforce that is ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow.
My vision for Pinellas County Schools is 100% student success, with all students at or above grade level standards in reading and math, and graduates fully prepared for college, career or military service. Teachers and staff are critical to this success, and I will work to see teachers' salaries be above a livable wage and for teaching in Pinellas County to be a well-compensated career field. We need to respect and value the work teachers do.
As a School Board member, I can influence and set policy and work with the Superintendent to make this vision a reality. My role as a School Board member is to set district policy, adopt curriculum, approve budgets, hire and evaluate the Superintendent and ensure compliance with state and federal law, all of which is critical to create an environment where students can thrive.
Pinellas County Schools relies on a variety of partnerships throughout the community to support many aspects of our schools like early literacy initiatives, hands-on engagement experiences in the arts and the environment, health and wellness programs, technical certifications, college scholarships and much more.
As a School Board Member, I intend on strengthening relationships with existing community partners, as well as seeking out new ones. I believe one of the best ways we can make public school families first choice is by providing educational choices whether that's fundamental, magnet and specialized programs or career and technical programs. I will listen to the business community to identify what skills they need from graduates and ensure we have programs aligned to fill those needs. I will also foster ways business communities can support our public schools whether that is through volunteering, supporting financially or being an engaged partner.
STATE OFFICES
Florida Governor
Candidate Name: Thomas Eloy Fernandez
Campaign Website: qrco.de/novaforflorida
My vision is for St. Petersburg and Pinellas County to continue growing as one of Florida's leading regions for business, innovation, tourism, healthcare, education, and entrepreneurship while remaining an affordable place where families, workers, and retirees can thrive.
As Governor, I will work to lower the cost of living, address Florida's homeowners insurance crisis, improve infrastructure, strengthen workforce development, support small businesses, and invest in resilient communities that are prepared for future challenges. I believe state government should be a reliable partner to local governments and the private sector by reducing unnecessary barriers, encouraging responsible economic development, and making strategic investments that create jobs while protecting Florida's natural resources.
A thriving Pinellas County means creating opportunities for businesses to grow, helping families succeed, and ensuring our communities remain safe, resilient, and economically competitive for generations to come.
Florida's business community is essential to solving many of our state's greatest challenges. As Governor, I will maintain an open-door policy and work collaboratively with business leaders, chambers of commerce, entrepreneurs, educational institutions, nonprofits, and local governments to develop practical solutions that strengthen our economy.
I believe successful partnerships are built on communication, transparency, and accountability. My administration will actively seek input from employers on workforce development, infrastructure needs, housing affordability, insurance costs, transportation, healthcare access, and economic competitiveness. We will support policies that encourage innovation, attract investment, expand opportunities for small businesses, and prepare Floridians for the jobs of today and tomorrow.
When government, businesses, and communities work together, we can create lasting solutions that benefit both our economy and the people of Florida.
Florida Chief Financial Officer
Candidate Name: Earle Ford
Campaign Website: EarleforCFO.com
For St. Petersburg and Pinellas County to truly thrive, we need an economy that works for everyone—not just the wealthy few or special interests. My vision for this region is a resilient, inclusive community where working families can actually afford to live, where our coastal infrastructure is prepared for the future, and where consumers are protected from predatory financial practices.
As your Chief Financial Officer, my office will be the ultimate watchdog for the people of Florida. I am bringing a sharp focus on transparency, accountability, anti-corruption, and consumer advocacy to ensure state government serves you.
Here is how my office will help realize that vision for Pinellas:
Tackling the Property Insurance Crisis: We cannot have a thriving coastal community if residents are priced out of their homes by skyrocketing premiums. I will fiercely advocate for consumers by holding insurance companies fully accountable. We will demand absolute transparency in how rates are set, fight back against executives who profit while denying legitimate claims, and push for systemic reforms that actually protect homeowners. We will also level the playing field by focusing aggressive enforcement targeting fraudulent claims, abusive litigation, and other 3rd parties who intentionally inflate prices which also contribute to the insurance crises.
Rooting Out Corporate Corruption: A fair economy requires a level playing field. My office will aggressively investigate corporate fraud, wage theft, and predatory lending that disproportionately harm working families and seniors. We will ensure that the financial rules apply to everyone, regardless of how much power or influence they hold in Tallahassee.
Empowering Consumers: Through our consumer advocacy divisions, we will put the full weight of the state behind everyday Floridians. We will provide direct, accessible support to help residents navigate financial disputes, fight back against scams, and build long-term economic security.
Transparent and Responsible Investing: As the steward of the state's finances, I will ensure that our investments reflect our values. That means prioritizing transparency in state contracting and using our financial leverage to support initiatives that benefit our communities, like climate resilience and sustainable infrastructure, rather than enriching political insiders.
The business community—especially our local small and mid-sized businesses—is vital to creating good-paying jobs and sustaining the vibrant culture of St. Petersburg and Pinellas County. My approach is to partner with employers who want to invest in their workforce and our community, while ensuring they aren't undercut by bad actors.
Leveling the Playing Field: Honest businesses suffer when anti-competitive monopolies and corrupt actors rig the system. By strictly enforcing anti-corruption measures and going after corporate fraud, my office protects local Pinellas enterprises from unfair competition, allowing them to thrive on their own merits.
Tackling the Affordability Crisis Together: Businesses cannot grow if their workers cannot afford to live in the community. I will work directly with local chambers and business leaders to address the economic squeeze—particularly commercial property insurance costs and housing affordability—because creating a sustainable cost of living is essential for attracting and retaining a strong workforce.
Collaborative Problem-Solving: I believe in open doors and transparent dialogue. I am committed to hosting regular forums with St. Pete's business owners, labor leaders, and community advocates to ensure our financial policies are grounded in the realities of our local economy.
Fostering a Resilient Economy: Pinellas businesses are on the front lines of climate and economic shifts. We will work alongside the business community to invest in resilience—ensuring that when the next storm or economic downturn hits, our local enterprises have the stability, transparent state support, and fair insurance payouts they need to keep their doors open and their workers employed.
Florida Senate
Candidate Name: Linda Kellis Harris
District: 18
My vision and my campaign are driven by a comprehensive plan that focuses on fair housing, strong schools, thriving small businesses, and an inclusive government. I will advocate for a government that's transparent, inclusive and accountable to all residents. I believe all Floridians should have the opportunity to work hard and succeed, as we are Stronger Together.
I am dedicated to representing the diverse voices of the community by putting the people first and bringing We the People back into the heart of government. I will encourage entrepreneurship and economic growth through targeted community support. I will listen to my constituents; I will value diverse perspectives and strive to build bridges across the community; my approach is people-centered, focusing on solutions that will benefit all. I believe that government should be responsive, compassionate and proactive. I am committed to representing all voices, especially those often left unheard. I want to bring back accountability, responsibility and representation to Pinellas County District 18!
Florida House of Representatives
My vision for a thriving St. Petersburg and Pinellas County is a community where everyone feels welcome, where the cost of living does not force young families to leave or seniors out of the homes they have built their lives in. It is a place where young people have meaningful third spaces to gather with friends, build community, and give back. It is a place where teachers are valued, fairly compensated, and trusted to lead with their expertise. As a state representative, I will work every day in Tallahassee to ensure the policies and laws I support are centered on the real needs of the people I serve. I will work to bring state funds back to the County and the City to support grants access for small businesses and investing in expansion of clean energy workforce programs that will create jobs for Floridians and reduce our reliance on fossil fuel energy.
As a state representative, I will remain accessible and responsive to the community. Business leaders will know they can reach me and my in-district office, which will be centrally located in the county. I will meet the business community where they are by attending meetings, offering monthly office hours, and working quickly to address pressing challenges and seize new opportunities.
I am the only candidate that has,
Served two terms on St. Pete City Council 2008 - 2016, two terms in Florida House - 2016 -2020 and Florida Commission on Ethics 2022 - 2024.
Local and Legislative experience with zero learning curve "Ready To Serve, Day One"
"With 15 years of experience building bridges and relationships as a minority member, I've learned how to work across the aisle to delivering millions in much needed resources to our community"
I am endorsed by the Tampa Firefighters IAFF Local 754 and the St. Petersburg Association of Firefighters IAFF Local 747.
I ask for your vote on August 18th, 2026,
I also believe that a thriving community begins with safe neighborhoods and effective public services. As a Navy veteran and former law enforcement officer, I understand the importance of public safety, accountability, and community trust. I will continue to support law enforcement, first responders, veterans, and the organizations that strengthen the fabric of our communities.
Most importantly, I believe elected officials should be accessible, responsive, and accountable to the people they represent. My office will not simply be a vote in Washington it will be a resource and advocate for the residents, businesses, veterans, and local leaders of Pinellas County. Success should not be measured by political victories, but by whether families feel more secure, businesses are growing, communities are safer, and future generations have greater opportunities to succeed.
My goal is simply to help ensure that St. Petersburg and Pinellas County remain among the best places in America to live, work, raise a family, start a business, and retire.
By treating businesses as key stakeholders, we can tackle challenges like workforce gaps, housing affordability and infrastructure head-on,
"With 15 years of experience building bridges and relationships as a minority member, I've learned how to work across the aisle to delivering millions in much needed resources to our community"
FEDERAL OFFICES
U.S. Senate
Candidate Name: Angie Nixon
Campaign Website: angienixon.com
My vision is a St. Petersburg and Pinellas County where working families, small business owners, retirees, veterans, and young people can afford to live, work, and build their future. That means addressing the rising cost of housing, stabilizing insurance costs, investing in transportation and infrastructure, protecting our coastline and environment, and ensuring that economic growth benefits everyone, not just a select few.
As Florida’s next United States Senator, I will fight for policies that lower costs for families, expand access to affordable healthcare, support workforce development, strengthen disaster resilience, and bring federal resources back to our communities. I believe economic success and quality of life go hand in hand. My role will be to advocate for practical solutions that help local communities thrive while ensuring that federal government works for the people and businesses that drive our economy every day.
Strong communities require strong partnerships between government, workers, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and the business community. I believe business leaders should have a seat at the table when discussing economic development, workforce training, infrastructure improvements, housing affordability, and disaster preparedness.
I am a small business owner, running my own bookstore, Cafe Resistance, which employs young people, provides free meeting space to community groups and educational programming for the public. As Senator, I will maintain an open line of communication with chambers of commerce, other small businesses, entrepreneurs, and major employers throughout Pinellas County and across Florida. I will actively seek input from the business community on federal policies and work collaboratively to identify solutions that help businesses grow while creating good jobs and strengthening our local economy. I am committed to advancing policies that support both economic opportunity and shared prosperity.
Candidate Name: Neelam Perry
Campaign Website: vote4perry.org
Facilitate infrastructure development, high speed rail, tourism development, beaches, FEMA, and other public services, protect farmland, improve water quality, improve public safety standards, improve public health services, affordable housing, education grants and provide a better quality of living
Chamber meetings, Town Hall meetings and other social media and events
U.S. House of Representatives
We need to address the economic vitality of the working class of this region. The acquisitive power—or purchasing power—of St Pete/Pinellas is the primary engine behind us enjoying a vibrant local economy. When residents have disposable income and the means to spend, it triggers a powerful economic multiplier effect that sustains local businesses and public services. Unfortunately, we are mired in a negative feedback loop that continues to erode this acquisitive power, with the United Way finding nearly 50% of our region's population living paycheck to paycheck (ALICE population). Our federal government has been an active participant in eroding this power, and it must stop and be reversed. Illegal tariff wars ($2000 cost/household/year), elimination of ACA health insurance subsidies ($200-$1000+/month/household), 78% increase in property insurance in three years, $400 increase in gas/month per household, etc - all due to a Congress that is abdicating its responsibility to our citizens. It is time for our government to represent the vast majority of citizens, small & medium businesses that are under assault and I will be that accountable representative.
The current Congressional representative of this district has not hosted a town hall in over a decade. That will change immediately, with published town halls, not only in Pinellas/St. Pete but throughout this gerrymandered 6-county district. At the core of job creation and economic vitality are our small and medium-sized businesses throughout the region that will be centered in our work in Washington, having iterative conversations that support these job creators and ensure that our federal government is no longer a hostile threat to business, but a catalytic partner in empowering growth. As a past St. Pete Chamber of Commerce board member for over a decade, I am excited about this opportunity to partner with the Chamber, its membership and the community to bring this serious representation for our region in Washington.
My vision for St. Petersburg and Pinellas County is a community where families can afford to live, businesses can thrive, public safety remains strong, and future generations have greater opportunities than those who came before them. A thriving Pinellas County is one that successfully balances economic growth with quality of life, preserves its unique coastal character, protects its natural resources, and invests in the infrastructure necessary to support a growing population.
St. Petersburg and Pinellas County have long been recognized as destinations for innovation, tourism, healthcare, small business growth, and veteran communities. My vision is to build upon those strengths by fostering an environment where entrepreneurs can create jobs, workers can earn a good living, seniors can retire with dignity, and young families can put down roots without being priced out of the communities they love.
As a member of Congress, my role will be to serve as a strong advocate for the people of this region by ensuring that federal policies support economic opportunity, fiscal responsibility, and local priorities. I will work to reduce unnecessary regulations that burden businesses, support investments in transportation and infrastructure, strengthen our ports and airports, and improve the resilience of our coastal communities against future storms and environmental challenges.
I also believe that a thriving community begins with safe neighborhoods and effective public services. As a Navy veteran and former law enforcement officer, I understand the importance of public safety, accountability, and community trust. I will continue to support law enforcement, first responders, veterans, and the organizations that strengthen the fabric of our communities.
Most importantly, I believe elected officials should be accessible, responsive, and accountable to the people they represent. My office will not simply be a vote in Washington it will be a resource and advocate for the residents, businesses, veterans, and local leaders of Pinellas County. Success should not be measured by political victories, but by whether families feel more secure, businesses are growing, communities are safer, and future generations have greater opportunities to succeed.
My goal is simply to help ensure that St. Petersburg and Pinellas County remain among the best places in America to live, work, raise a family, start a business, and retire.
I believe the business community is not simply a stakeholder in our region's future, it is one of our most important partners. Businesses create jobs, drive innovation, invest in communities, and often have firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing our region. Effective leadership requires listening to those who are creating economic opportunity and working alongside them to develop practical solutions.
Throughout my career in both the private sector and public service, I have learned that successful outcomes are achieved when leaders bring people together, build relationships, and focus on results rather than rhetoric. As a business executive, I understand the challenges employers face, including workforce development, regulatory burdens, rising operating costs, infrastructure needs, insurance costs, and economic uncertainty. These issues directly impact their ability to grow, hire, and invest in our communities.
As your Congressman, I will maintain an open and accessible office that actively engages with business leaders, entrepreneurs, chambers of commerce, industry groups, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations. I believe the best policy decisions are informed by those who are closest to the issues, not dictated solely from Washington.
I will work to foster an environment where businesses can thrive by supporting policies that encourage economic growth, workforce development, innovation, infrastructure investment, and responsible fiscal management. I will also advocate for reducing unnecessary regulations that hinder growth while preserving the protections necessary to ensure public trust and safety.
Equally important, I see the business community as a critical partner in addressing broader regional challenges such as affordable housing, workforce shortages, transportation infrastructure, veteran employment, healthcare access, and disaster preparedness. Many of the most effective solutions emerge when government, business, and community organizations work together toward shared goals.
My commitment is to be a responsive and collaborative leader who values input, encourages innovation, and focuses on delivering measurable results. By building strong partnerships with the business community, we can strengthen our economy, improve quality of life, and create opportunities that benefit all residents of St. Petersburg, Pinellas County, and Florida's 16th Congressional District.