The Tampa District 5 special election is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched races in the city’s history. With fourteen candidates officially qualified, the contest for the vacant City Council seat has become a crowded and competitive field. The special election was called after the sudden passing of former council member Gwen Henderson, and voters across East Tampa, downtown, Ybor City, and parts of West Tampa will soon have a big decision to make.
For more official updates, visit the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections website and follow their Facebook page for real-time information.
Why This Election Matters
The District 5 seat holds significant influence, representing some of Tampa’s most historic and fast-growing neighborhoods. With the qualifying period now closed, candidates are preparing to capture the attention of residents ahead of election day on Sept. 9.
“This is going to be a very contentious election,” said Angela Birdsong, president of the Hillsborough County Democratic Black Caucus, at a recent candidate forum. With a runoff possible if no candidate secures a majority, the battle for this seat could extend to Oct. 28.
The Top Fundraisers in the Race
While all fourteen candidates are pushing their messages, six contenders have emerged as fundraising leaders:
- Thomas Scott – A former Hillsborough County commissioner and Tampa City Council member, Scott leads the pack with nearly $36,000 raised. Currently serving as a pastor at the 34th Street Church of God, he previously represented District 5 from 2007 to 2011.
- Ariel Amirah Danley – The daughter of Gwen Henderson, Danley has raised $24,000 and brings both personal ties and community recognition.
- Juawana Colbert – A Realtor featured on Netflix’s Selling Tampa, Colbert has collected more than $21,400, making her one of the most notable candidates in the race.
- Alison A. Hewitt, Fran M. Tate, and Naya Young – Each has raised between $10,000 and $13,000, proving their campaigns are also gaining traction.
The Remaining Candidates
Eight other contenders have qualified by paying the $4,511.52 qualifying fee. These include Audette Bruce, Albert Cooke, Thomas DeGeorge Jr., Darrell Ashley Dudney, Elvis Piggott, Carroll “Carrie” West, and Melony Williams.
Additionally, Jose N. Vazquez Figueroa has entered the race as a write-in candidate, though his name will not appear on the ballot.
With such a large field, it’s widely expected that no single candidate will secure more than 50% of the vote, making a runoff election almost inevitable.
What Voters Need to Know
- Early Voting: Runs from Sept. 4 through Sept. 7.
- Election Day: Scheduled for Sept. 9.
- Runoff Election: If required, will take place on Oct. 28.
- Term Length: The winner will serve a 15-month term on the Tampa City Council.
For details on polling locations and voter registration, check the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections official site or follow updates on Twitter/X.
The Stakes for Tampa
This race isn’t just about filling a vacant chair—it’s about shaping the future of Tampa’s growth. District 5 is home to historic neighborhoods, a diverse population, and key economic areas. Whoever wins will help guide development, housing, and community investment for years to come.
With fundraising heating up, personalities clashing, and voter turnout likely to determine the outcome, the Tampa District 5 special election is one that every resident should be watching closely.
As the countdown to Sept. 9 begins, one question remains: Which voice will rise above the rest to define Tampa’s future? Stay tuned—this race is just getting started.
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