Hillsborough County School Board member April Griffin has endorsed Guido Maniscalco over two other challengers for City Council. Maniscalco is running to replace term-limited council chair Charlie Miranda.
“April Griffin has proven herself to be a true leader, willing to fight for what is right, and it is a great honor to receive her endorsement and support,” Maniscalco said.
As a countywide board member Griffin represents voters, parents and students throughout Hillsborough. She was re-elected to her seat by a wide margin in November.
Though both School Board and City Council races are non-partisan, Griffin is a known Democrat. She considered a run for County Commission as one and her challenger for School Board raked in piles of party money from GOP sources. Maniscalco is also a Democrat. Jackie Toledo, who is considered by some as the frontrunner, is a Republican.
“I am pleased to endorse Guido Maniscalco for the District 6 seat on the Tampa City Council. Guido has the necessary skills and knowledge to help move Tampa forward,” Griffin said. “He will serve the city well with his professionalism and knowledge of city issues.”
Maniscalco is a small business owner who runs his family’s jewelry store in West Tampa. The store has been in business for over 40 years. He currently serves as the president of the MacFarlane Park Neighborhood Association, as a member of the City of Tampa Code Enforcement Board and as a member of the Hillsborough County Human Rights Council.
Maniscalco trails Toledo in campaign cash. He’s brought in just $22,139. Toledo has raised more than $80,000. A third candidate, Thomas Clark Castellano, has brought in $26,340. The election is March 3.
