Bill Carlson trounces Blake Casper’s monied machine in Tampa City Council battle

Tampa City Council member Bill Carlson will get another four years representing constituents in District 4.

Despite a major funding deficit, Carlson managed to eke by Caspers Company CEO Blake Casper with 59% of the vote.

The race was one of the most high-profile local contests this cycle, seen largely as a possible referendum on Mayor Jane Castor. Carlson has been one of three City Council members to vote against Castor’s priorities, or for items that erode her executive authority.

Casper filed for the race with just hours left before the qualifying deadline passed.

Insiders believe Casper was a Castor recruit.

– Peter Schorsch, Florida Politics