Tampa Mayor Jane Castor has endorsed St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch’s re-election, adding a regional endorsement to the race as Welch seeks another term leading Pinellas County’s largest city.
The endorsement comes days after former Florida Gov. Charlie Crist filed to run for mayor of St. Petersburg, setting up a high-profile challenge to Welch’s re-election.
Welch’s campaign announced the endorsement April 29 and tied it to the working relationship between the two mayors on issues that affect both cities, including housing, infrastructure and economic growth across the Tampa Bay region.
Castor said the relationship has led to coordination between the cities as they manage growth and rising costs.
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“Mayor Ken Welch has been a thoughtful, collaborative leader for St. Petersburg and a strong partner for our entire region,” Castor said. “He leads with integrity, puts people first, and understands how to bring communities together to get things done.”
Welch said that approach will continue if he is re-elected.
“The Tampa Bay region succeeds when we work together,” Welch said. “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, Welch has prioritized housing affordability, economic development and infrastructure investment, while emphasizing regional partnerships.
The endorsement adds to Welch’s support from labor groups and elected officials across Pinellas County, including public safety organizations.
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