Norman declares victory in state Senate race

In a race noted more for the candidates' personal issues than political stances, Hillsborough County Commissioner Jim Norman declared victory late Tuesday in the battle against state Rep. Kevin Ambler for the Republican nomination for state Senate District 12.

Norman, who has served 18 years as a county commissioner, had a commanding lead late into the night, though Ambler refused to concede defeat until all votes were tallied.

Norman, 56, campaigned heavily on the endorsement of former Gov. Jeb Bush and framed his campaign around the claim that he was only true conservative in the race.

Amber, a four-term state House member, touted his experience as a legislator and criticized Norman for challenging his conservative credentials.

The bruising battle for the GOP nomination occurred as part of an effort to find a replacement for term-limited Sen. Victor Crist. The district includes north Hillsborough County, including the University of South Florida area, and extends into central and eastern Pasco County.

Norman, who earned a reputation as a well-connected politician with an interest in establishing regional parks and building sports venues, attributed his victory to strong grass-root supporter. "They came out from everywhere," he said. "I could not have done it without them."

Norman and Ambler sparred over such issues as the mass transit initiative Hillsborough County voters will consider in November and Ambler's attempt to introduce an immigration bill similar to Arizona's during a recent failed special session.

However, for both candidates their political positions took a backseat to personal matters.

Since July, Norman has had to answer questions about a $435,000 lakefront home in Arkansas his wife, Mearline, bought four years ago. Norman said he had no obligation to disclose the house under Florida law because it was purchased by his wife. Last week, the Salvation Army issued a statement in an attempt to clarify Norman's duties as a community liaison, a full-time job that pays him $95,000 annually. He also earns $92,000 a year as a commissioner.

A recent review of state records revealed Ambler has received more than a dozen driving infractions, including 10 speeding citations, in the past 11 years. The latest incident occurred Aug. 14 when Ambler was cited for violating the right of way shortly after he was involved in a traffic accident with injuries.

No Democrats qualified to run for the state Senate seat. Norman will face two write-in candidates, Derek Crabb and Kimberly Renspie, in November.