“Jack Latvala has valuable experience that will benefit our region in Tallahassee. He accomplished many things for the Tampa Bay area and the state as a whole when he served in the Senate from 1994-2002. He was the driving force to end the water wars in the Tampa Bay area, he was a champion for the environment, and he delivered results for the communities he represented.
“ When we began the Florida International Museum in St. Petersburg and traveled to Tallahassee looking for support, Jack Latvala helped. I saw first-hand how hard he worked for the people he represented and how effective an advocate he was on the issues he thought were important to the people of his district. I know Jack will work hard for St. Petersburg and his entire district in Tallahassee and I look forward to having him as my Senator.”
“ Rick Baker not only lives in Senate District 16 but is also one of the most important leaders in the district, and to have his support is very important for me. I appreciate it very much,” said Latvala. “I have been very pleased with the response my candidacy has received so far, but I expect this to be a very hard-fought race and this critical support from Mayor Baker will add considerably to our momentum.”
Current State Senator Charlie Justice is vacating the District 16 seat to run for the U.S. Congress. District 16 includes parts of Pinellas and Hillsborough counties.