Former governor Charlie Crist marched toward the ballot box Thursday evening to the beat of a marching band drumline, bringing music and supporters along as he cast his vote in a mayoral race he enters with a commanding lead over incumbent Ken Welch.
For Crist, who has spent decades in public office, Thursday’s vote caps a notable career in politics: after serving as Florida Governor, Attorney General, a state Senator and a member of Congress, he is seeking an office he has never held – Mayor of his hometown.
“This is the first time I’ve run for mayor; it’s exciting to serve my hometown; I love it, and I love the people – change is coming,” Crist said.
The voting event began at Mary Margaret’s Olde Irish Tavern in downtown St. Petersburg, where Crist invited supporters to gather before heading to the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections office at 501 First Ave. N.
A recent St. Pete Polls survey, previously reported by Florida Politics, showed Crist leading Welch by 21 percentage points. It marked the second survey since the August primary to give Crist an advantage of at least 20 points, suggesting the former Governor has maintained his momentum as the campaign enters its final stretch.
Crist also finished first in the six-candidate August primary, capturing approximately 35% of the vote compared to Welch’s roughly 21%.
Asked Thursday how he feels about the state of the race, Crist offered a measured assessment despite his sizable polling advantage.
“I’m confident but never complacent,” he said.
The contest has centered on competing visions for St. Petersburg, including the future of the Tropicana Field property, city spending, property taxes and infrastructure improvements. Crist has campaigned on changing City Hall’s direction, while Welch has defended his administration’s record and priorities.
Thursday’s appearance offered Crist an opportunity to encourage early voting while emphasizing the personal significance of his latest political campaign.
Despite having held some of Florida’s highest-profile offices, Crist has repeatedly described the mayoral race as an opportunity to serve the community where he grew up.
Asked what becoming Mayor would mean after already serving as Governor, Crist stated, “It means everything. When you grow up in a town like this — I’ve been here since I was 3 years old. As they say, there’s no place like home.”
Early voting continues in Pinellas County through Nov. 1, with Election Day set for Nov. 3.