Janelle Irwin Taylor
Democrat Lindsay Cross is launching a new ad this week in her bid for Senate District 24 that touts her commitment to the environment.
The ad, entitled “It’s Time” shows images of Cross at various local waterfront locations, as well as a photo of her working as an environmental scientist.
“Florida’s water and natural environment are under attack,” Cross begins the 15-second ad. “It’s time for a state senator that will fight to protect our water supply and environment and as your next state senator that’s exactly what I will do.”
Cross, a Democrat, is running against Republican State Senator Jeff Brandes for the SD 24 seat covering most of St. Petersburg and the Pinellas Gulf Beaches. Cross has criticized Brandes for voting to reduce funding for environmental protection.
Cross frequently references a 2011 bill Brandes voted for that capped the funds Water Management Districts can collect to perform their duties.
Meanwhile, Cross has nabbed backing from environmental groups including the Sierra Club and Florida Conservation Voters.
Cross announced Tuesday she’s taping another ad that will air on cable and social media later this week. She didn’t go into details about what the ad will address, but she was filming at Pass-a-Grille Beach, which she described as one of her favorites, implying the topic may again be the environment.
Cross could also mention red tide. The bacteria bloom is killing tons of fish, which are washing on shore and keeping visitors from the beach. The smell and toxic air make beach going a no-no for the time being.
Conditions have improved in recent weeks, but some beaches are still experiencing problems.
Democrats have been blaming Republicans, particularly Gov. Rick Scott, for the severity of this year’s bloom arguing environmental deregulation has led to increased dirty discharges into the Bay and other waterways.
Red tide is a naturally occurring phenomenon, but some argue pollution worsened it.
Cross is at a disadvantage against Brades. As the incumbent, Brandes comes with broad name recognition and fundraising prowess. The Republican has out-raised Cross by well over double.
Still, Cross is waging quite the social media campaign. Ads are all over Facebook and even in pop-up ads on mobile gaming applications.
She regularly posts on Facebook with her daily campaign activities and canvasses almost every day.
Cross entered the race late after the former Democratic candidate, Carrie Pilon, bowed out to tend to family health matters.
