Wengay Newton gives his endorsement to Ed Montanari’s reelection effort

Former St. Petersburg City Council member (and now state Rep.) Wengay Newton is throwing his weight behind Ed Montanari.

Montanari is running for reelection to his District 3 City Council seat representing northeast St. Pete.

“Ed Montanari is an excellent choice to represent the residents of St. Petersburg on the City Council,” Newton said. “This election is not about partisan politics. It’s about electing a leader who understands the unique issues facing our communities and is willing to work together to solve them. As a former member of our City Council, I trust Ed Montanari to make the right decisions for the future of our city.”

Newton’s endorsement brings Montanari’s tally to more than 15 nods from elected officials and organizations.

“I’m honored to have the support of Rep. Wengay “Newt” Newton,” said Montanari. “As a former member of the St. Petersburg City Council and now as a member of the Florida House, Newt’s steadfast dedication to his community is an example of the kind of service we expect from our Elected Officials. I look forward to continuing our friendship and our work together,” Montanari said.

Montanari was first elected to the council in 2015 without opposition. This year, he’s facing Orlando Acosta in his reelection bid. Acosta, a Democrat, is running his campaign as a progressive candidate challenging a conservative and has been sending out campaign fliers tying Montanari to Trump. For his part, Montanari has stayed out of the fray, but it’s worth noting Montanari has never publicly supported President Donald Trump. Acosta’s campaign claims are based instead on past City Council votes.

Montanari is currently vice-chair on the council. He chairs the Budget, Finance and Taxation and Legislative Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations committees. Montanari is vice-chair of the Public Services and Infrastructure committee.

Montanari faces Acosta at the polls Nov. 5. Mail ballots have already gone out to those who have requested them. Ballots can still be requested on the Supervisor of Elections website.