Council Chair did not endorse state house candidate

ST. PETERSBURG-- In his election fliers, State House candidate Earnest Williams boasts of endorsements from a slew of local dignitaries, including Council Chairman Jamie Bennett.

But Bennett, who has sat with Williams on the St. Petersburg council for nearly a decade, said he has not endorsed anyone in the heated District 55 race and that he plans to remain neutral.

"He is a good friend, I think he would make a great legislator," Bennett said of Williams, before adding that he is also good friends with Darryl Rouson, William's rival in the state house election.

"If I could endorse in both races I would," Bennett said.

When asked about the false endorsement during a candidate forum at the Studio@620 Wednesday night, Williams said he could not comment until he had spoken with Bennett.

Rouson and Williams are running against educator Charles McKenzie to replace former state Rep. Frank Peterman Jr. A special primary election is set for March 25. No Republicans filed to run.

-Cristina Silva, Times Staff Writer

Comments

McKenzie is the best candidate.

Well the truth starts to come out what kind of trash is on the St. Petersburg City Council.

[Kyle]

Is this the same Rouson who had to file for bancruptcy protection a few years ago. If it is, why would you vote for him? Obviously he can't manage money.