Charlie Crist's $1.1M War Chest for St. Pete Mayor Race

0:00It's April 7th. I'm Cory with the story, and this is Tampa Bay News today, local news powered by AI. Former Florida governor Charlie Christ is stacking serious cash for a likely shot at St. Petersburg mayor. Through his St. Pete Shines political committee, he's raised almost $1.2 million so far, including $473,000 in the first three months of the year. He's gearing up to challenge incumbent Democrat Ken Welch, even though they've endorsed each other in past races. Earlier this week, Christ dropped an ad highlighting his and the city's baseball roots right before the raise home opener. Christ called the support humbling and thanked donors and his faith. His mother's passing in February slowed his plans, but he hinted at filing paperwork soon if he jumps in. The committee's chair praised the bipartisan mix of donors from Seminole Gaming's $50,000 check to local heavyweights like developers and former officials. They've only spent $57,000 leaving $1.1 million on hand.

1:03Meanwhile, five other hopefuls are in the race, including Council Member Brandy Gabbard and Expire Chief Jim Large. With the primary on August 18th and a possible runoff, November 3rd, Christ's war chest positions him strong as St. Pete's political scene heats up.