Sep 9, 2021 - Politics

Darden Rice endorses Ken Welch for St. Pete mayor

Selene San Felice

Darden Rice and Ken Welch. Photos courtesy of the City of St. Pete and St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce

Just a few weeks ago, Darden Rice and Ken Welch were fierce rivals, vying to make history — but Rice has now joined forces with Welch to make him St. Pete's first Black mayor.

What's happening: Rice endorsed Welch yesterday in his race against Republican and her fellow City Council member Robert Blackmon.

Rice told the Tampa Bay Times' Colleen Wright that she wants to be a part of Welch's success, and therefore the success of the city.

The other side: Blackmon told Wright he was disappointed with Rice's endorsement of Welch, but his strategy is still the same:

"She’s still my friend. ... Just because someone doesn’t support you doesn’t mean her ideas aren’t valuable. Once I’m elected mayor, everyone’s viewpoints will have a home."

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Darden Rice endorses Ken Welch for St. Pete mayor

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