[image-1]
As of 2 p.m., Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections spokesperson Nancy Whitlock says turnout is estimated at 4.8 percent. Add the 12 percent of mail-in ballots already counted, and that means just over 16 percent of registered voters in St. Petersburg have performed their civic duty. Although more folks will vote after work, some experts say voter turnout will only land around 25 percent.
Blame what you want: the rain, an uninspiring field of candidates or a really long line at the DMV. Whatever the reason, residents are losing a chance to decide the direction of the ‘burg over the next four years.
Unfortunately, St. Petersburg residents largely ignore local races. In 2007, for the election of two City Councilmembers, a mere 9 percent of registered voters showed up to polling places. In 2005, only 20 percent voted for mayor. You might chalk that up to Mayor Rick Baker’s popularity, but in 2001, in the last mayoral primary with 9 candidates, only 25 percent of voters showed up.
Are three-quarters of St. Pete citizens really that indifferent to who runs this city?
For those who did vote, and eagerly await the results, I’m reporting all evening for the Daily Loaf and for my site, Will Report for Food. Considering the rain has prevented the always-interesting sign-waving battles, I’m attending the various Election Day watch parties for some real action, and hopefully, free food. If you want to join me, here’s a rundown of the events:
Larry Williams will hold his party at the old Louis Pappas, 1530 4th Street North.
Scott Wagman hosts a shindig at the Outback Steakhouse, conveniently only three blocks away at 1900 4th Street North.
Bill Foster will await his results at Midtown Sundries.
And in the weirdest coincidence, Kathleen Ford and Deveron Gibbons will both party down at 128 Third Street South. Ford supporters will chow down at the Red Mesa Cantina on the bottom floor, while Gibbons’ crew watches results at Push Ultra Lounge upstairs. I’m counting on some awkward mingling moments . . .
Any info on other Election Day parties would be much appreciated.
