Bob Buckhorn Passes On Gubernatorial Run

TAMPA, FL — Tampa Bay area Democrats hoping to see Bob Buckhorn make a run for governor in 2018 are out of luck. The popular mayor of Tampa announced Thursday he has no intentions to seek the post after Gov. Rick Scott terms out.

Citing a need to be around for milestones in his two daughters’ lives and work yet to be done in the City of Tampa, Buckhorn announced his decision on Facebook.

“While I absolutely believe that the State of Florida needs a course correction and a new direction, the timing for me and my family would be a challenge,” Buckhorn wrote.

Buckhorn also said he’s more than happy with the job he already has, overseeing the city’s 4,400 employees and plans for a “transformation.”

“For me, finishing Tampa's next chapter is more important than starting mine. Absent extenuating circumstances, I intend to finish the job I was hired to do and prepare Tampa for the great things that are about to occur,” Buckhorn said.

Buckhorn’s term ends in early 2019, giving him about 24 months to finish the job he started.

Buckhorn’s full statement can be read below:

Image via the City of Tampa Facebook page