Ending months of speculation, former U.S. Rep. Jim Davis said today he is "seriously considering" a bid for Tampa's mayor in the March elections.
Davis was one of the most vocal proponents of a proposed countywide sales tax increase to pay for light rail, expanded bus service and other transportation upgrades, which was overwhelmingly rejected by Hillsborough voters in the Nov. 2 elections.
Still, Davis said he isn't concerned that his involvement with the mass transit campaign could hurt his chances of winning if he decides to enter the mayoral race.
"I was fighting for something I felt was very important for the community," he said.
Davis, a Democrat, served in the U.S. House from 1997 to 2007, representing Florida's 11th congressional district. He was the Democratic nominee for governor of Florida in the 2006 election, but was defeated by Republican Charlie Crist. Prior to Congress, Davis was the state representative for District 56 from 1988 to 1996, and was majority leader from 1995 to 1996.
He would be entering a crowded race to replace outgoing Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio.
They include Hillsborough County Commissioner Rose Ferlita, former Tampa Councilman Bob Buckhorn, council Chairman and former Commissioner Tom Scott, former commissioner Ed Turanchik, former Tampa police Capt. Marion Lewis and businessman Arthur Richardson.
Former Mayor Dick Greco has said he is considering a return to politics.
Qualifying deadline for the office ends Jan. 14.
Iorio, mayor since 2003, cannot run because of term limits.
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