Mitch Perry
Former St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Baker is backing local Tampa businesswoman Rebecca Smith in the race for House District 60 in Hillsborough County.
“Rebecca Smith is a principled, conservative Republican and proven business leader, with a strong track record of accomplishment,” Baker said in a statement issued by the Smith campaign. “I am confident that she will use these talents effectively to serve House District 60 in our state capital, and I support her candidacy. On election day, I hope you will support her too by voting for Rebecca Smith for State Representative.”
Smith said she was grateful for the endorsement.
“Mayor Baker has led and continues to lead with integrity and honor,” Smith said. “He has been recognized for his leadership in developing educational and local development policies which have delivered solid results. Mayor Baker has been a role model to me, and I am humbled by his endorsement and support.”
Smith is engaged in a primary battle in the Republican party against Jackie Toledo. The party elite are clearly supporting Smith in the race, however, as she has been getting key endorsements in the contest. That election is Aug. 30.
The winner will take on Tampa-based land use attorney David Singer in November.
HD 60 includes all of South Tampa, much of south Hillsborough County, and Town N Country.
