2026 Primary Endorsements
The membership of the Stonewall Democrats of Pinellas County have voted to endorse a slate of candidates for Municipal primary elections in St. Petersburg, Fl. All candidates completed written surveys on equality issues and were interviewed at length by the organization’s Elections committee. Organization members and the public are strongly encouraged to support these candidates and assist in their campaigns. The Stonewall Democrats’ endorsement is sought by candidates because of the strong involvement of Stonewall members in local campaign efforts. The endorsement slate is widely disseminated to voters and political groups who support equality initiatives and seek guidance on how to cast their votes.
August 18th Primary “Endorsements” And
November 3rd General Election
Mayor of St. Petersburg : Kenneth T. Welch
Florida State Senate District 16 : Michele K. Rayner
Florida State House District 58 : Bryan Beckman
Florida State House District 60 : Lindsay Polega-Quigley
Florida State House District 61 : May Thach
Florida State House District 62 : Kyandra Darling
St. Petersburg City Council District 2 : Gabriel Hament
St. Petersburg City Council District 6 : Dr. Lindsey Grove
August 18th Primary “Recommendations” And
November 3rd General Election
Pinellas County Commission District 6 : David Glenn Jr.
Mayor of St. Petersburg: Kenneth T. Welch (Primary)
The Stonewall Democrats of Pinellas County are proud to announce our unanimous endorsement of Mayor Ken Welch for re-election as Mayor of St. Petersburg. While the state’s removal of the rainbow crosswalks was painful, and the grief and anger that followed are real and valid, we ask that our community consider the full picture of Ken Welch’s record of support for the LGBTQIA+ community. That record speaks clearly. He moved in 2008 to add sexual orientation to employment and housing protections, voted in 2013 to create the county’s domestic partner registry, and as Mayor hired St. Petersburg’s first transgender LGBTQ+ liaison, a position his administration is actively fighting to preserve against state restrictions. These are years of documented action on our behalf, taken when it mattered. Our endorsement is grounded in our mission to support candidates with a demonstrated commitment to defeating homophobia, transphobia, and prejudice in all its forms. After a thorough interview process, our committee concluded unanimously that Mayor Ken Welch is that candidate. The Stonewall Democrats of Pinellas County stand with him, and we invite our full community to do the same. *note NO city employees participated in our Mayoral endorsement vote.
Florida State Senate District 16: Michele K. Rayner (General)
Representative Rayner has been a fierce advocate for our community in Tallahassee, and we have been proud of her work across two terms in the State House. As a queer woman, she has fought relentlessly for LGBTQ+ Floridians, and we are excited to see her bring that same tenacity to the Florida State Senate.
St. Petersburg City Council District 2: Gabriel Hament (General)
Gabriel’s experience as a public defender brings a vital perspective that is too often missing from the ranks of elected office, and we are excited at the prospect of yet another member of our community serving on the St. Petersburg City Council. His commitment to equity, public safety, and the rights of all residents reflects the values we believe should guide leadership in our city.
St. Petersburg City Council District 6: Dr. Lindsey Grove (Primary)
Dr. Grove’s Master’s and Doctorate in Public Health, combined with her focused work on sexual health and HIV case management, give her a firsthand understanding of the struggles facing our community. Her leadership as President of the League of Women Voters, paired with her thoughtful and intersectional approach to district issues, makes her an excellent choice for District 6.
Florida State House District 58 : Bryan Beckman (General)
Bryan has worked with the Sierra Club, focusing on environmental issues, and understands the need to address the district’s climate and insurance concerns. His strong ground game and dedication to meeting constituents where they are make him an exceptional candidate. A longtime resident and community advocate, Bryan brings the lived experience and grassroots commitment that District 58 deserves in Tallahassee.
Florida State House District 60 : Lindsay Polega-Quigley (General)
The Stonewall Democrats of Pinellas County are proud to support Lindsay Polega-Quigley for State House District 60. Lindsay brings sharp intellect, genuine passion for the community, and the deep preparation needed to succeed long-time representative Lindsay Cross. Her extensive background in reproductive justice advocacy, commitment to affordable housing, and practical approach to the insurance crisis make a strong impression on all who meet her. Equally meaningful is her compassionate communication style and dedication to listening to and uplifting marginalized communities.
Florida State House District 61 : May Thach (General)
May brings factual depth, specific policy knowledge, and a clear grassroots strategy for the district. Despite the district’s diversity, the Asian and Pacific Islander community has historically lacked political representation, and May believes deeply in engaging constituents who have long been overlooked by both political parties. As the only Democratic candidate in this race, she represents a vital opportunity for our community, and we are excited to fully support her campaign.
Florida State House District 62 : Kyandra Darling (General)
The Stonewall Democrats of Pinellas County are proud to support Kyandra Darling for State House District 62. Kyandra is a fourth-generation St. Petersburg native, working mother, and lifelong Democrat. She began her career in Congressman Charlie Crist’s office, then served as a legislative aide to St. Pete City Councilmembers Steve Kornell and Lisa Wheeler-Bowman, an experience she credits with shaping her authentic leadership style. She later spent years in the nonprofit sector collaborating with over 40 organizations focused on health equity, education, and economic opportunity across Tampa Bay. Kyandra’s clarity and conviction on issues critical to our community make her our choice for State House District 62.
Pinellas County Commission District 6 : David Glenn Jr. (General)
David’s background as an architect brings a distinctive perspective to the challenge of affordable housing, offering concrete, solutions-oriented thinking on how to expand access to quality housing options. He is running a grassroots campaign, and our caucus is proud to help him carry that message to the constituents of District 6.
