Wengay ‘Newt’ Newton Credit: Photo via State of Florida

St. Petersburg is at a crossroads, with a contentious debate over whether to hand over taxpayer money and city land to the Rays for a new stadium. Recent storms have also led to questions about the city’s stormwater infrastructure and resiliency plans.

Nick Carey would’ve been the best choice in District 3, where voters must now choose between two local business owners: Pete Boland (The Galley, The Ship’s Hold and Mary Margaret’s Olde Irish Tavern) and Mike Harting (3 Daughters Brewing).

The District 5 race is intriguing in that it pits the generally liberal incumbent, and Rays deal supporter, Deborah Figgs-Sanders against Rick Baker-backed newcomer Torrie Jasuwan who told the Tampa Bay Times she would’ve voted “no” on the deal and held out for better terms. This race, too, is a toss up for us.

But Brother John Muhammad is done and won’t run for office in District 7, which is a shame as his viewpoints brought a worker’s voice to the city council chambers. Vying to replace him are lifelong St. Pete residents, Cory Givens Jr., and Wengay “Newt” Newton who hopes to come back to council after serving two terms between 2008-2016. We’re all about new faces, but Newton’s experience (he went to state house representing south St. Pete) makes him the best choice for the seat.

District 3
Pete Boland
Mike Harting

District 5
Deborah Figgs-Sanders
Torrie Jasuwan

District 7
Corey Givens Jr.
Wengay ‘Newt’ Newton