“We’re entering a phase of the campaign that’s really about direct engagement, meeting voters where they are and having real conversations about the future of St. Petersburg,” said Mayor Ken Welch, as his reelection campaign begins to build momentum.
Welch, who is seeking a second term, is backing that approach with a growing slate of endorsements from local leaders and elected officials across St. Petersburg and the broader Tampa Bay region.
The campaign this week highlighted support from figures including Arthenia Joyner, Rep. Michele Rayner, Commissioner Rene Flowers and Council Member Deborah Figgs-Sanders, along with prior endorsements from the St. Petersburg Association of Fire Fighters and the Police Benevolent Association.
Much of that support centers on Welch’s first-term priorities, particularly storm recovery, housing and the ongoing redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District.
“In moments of crisis, residents need leadership that is calm, capable and focused on results,” said City Counceiman Copley Gerdes, pointing to Welch’s handling of storm recovery efforts.
Figgs-Sanders framed her support through the Gas Plant redevelopment, describing it as a project that requires “a steady hand” and an understanding of both the site’s history and its long-term implications for the city.
Welch pointed to progress on the Gas Plant redevelopment, storm recovery and housing access, while acknowledging that some efforts have required more time than expected.
“The first term has reinforced that progress requires both vision and persistence,” he told Poliverse. “A second term is about building on that foundation with a heightened focus on community resilience.”
That emphasis on resilience, he added, cuts across economic development, housing and infrastructure, positioning it as both a practical and long-term priority.
The campaign is also navigating the more immediate mechanics of running for reelection.
Welch acknowledged recent financial challenges, notably his former campaign treasurer allegedly fleecing the lion’s share of his campaign funds, but said the campaign has shifted toward grassroots fundraising and re-engaging supporters, emphasizing participation and advocacy alongside traditional fundraising.
“What’s been most meaningful is that our campaign is powered by people who are invested in St. Petersburg’s future,” he averred.
Flowers supplementing Welch’s priorities, wrote in her endorsement: “The next four years will set the stage for a future that will restore a land forgotten, bring about employment opportunities that move in tandem with the digital age, prepare for a resilient and sustainable coastline and provide attainable/ affordable housing for those most in need.”
As the race develops, the campaign is expected to continue building out its coalition while increasing its presence in the community, a strategy Welch says is less about broad messaging and more about direct conversation.
Ultimately, he framed his effort in the cadence of grassroots simplicity: “This campaign is about showing up, listening and laying out a clear vision for the next four years.”