Rick Baker, who served as mayor from 2001-2010, will run against incumbent Rick Kriseman.

ST. PETERSBURG – After months of speculation, former Mayor Rick Baker made it official this morning (May 8) – he wants to be St. Petersburg’s mayor again.

Baker filed paperwork to run for the seat held by Rick Kriseman, who is seeking his second term.

“I welcome all candidates to this race,” Kriseman said. “In just a few short years our community has moved forward on issues big and small, creating a city of opportunity and elevating St. Pete as a bold, progressive city. I’m proud of how far we’ve come and look forward to sharing our accomplishments and vision for the future on the campaign trail.”

Baker, who served two terms as mayor from 2001 to 2010, is president of the Edwards Group, which is involved in development, hotels, real estate, sports, entertainment and hospitality. Most notably, Baker worked as part of his job to help pass the May 2 referendum allowing the Tampa Bay Rowdies to have a long-term lease and to renovate Al Lang Field if the team brings Major League Soccer to the city. Before joining the Edwards Group, he was vice president of economic development at the University of South Florida.

Kriseman’s campaign was quick to react.

“Rick Baker had eight years as mayor and is now asking voters for more,” campaign manager Jacob Smith said. “Unfortunately for Rick Baker, this city is eager to pursue its future, not turn back the clock and unwind our progress with the Rays, the Pier, the police department, and economic development and opportunity creation in south St. Pete. Rick Baker is simply out of step with St. Pete. His refusal to embrace all individuals in our diverse community, especially our LGBT citizens, and his high profile work against our first African American president disqualifies him from governing a city as inclusive as St. Petersburg.”

For information about Rick Baker, go to facebook.com.

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