St. Petersburg – On Friday, former President Barack Obama endorsed St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman for re-election.
 
“As mayor of St. Petersburg, Rick Kriseman has taken on big challenges to move St. Pete forward” said former President Obama. “From raising the minimum wage and fighting for equality, to bold leadership on climate change, Rick was a great ally on the priorities of my administration. I strongly endorse Rick Kriseman as the only choice for continued progress for St. Petersburg.”
 
“I am incredibly honored to have the support of President Barack Obama as we continue our work of moving St. Pete forward” said Mayor Kriseman. “President Obama's leadership had a positive impact on our city. His historic election inspired us. His governance helped us to rebound from a great recession, made healthcare more available and affordable, and expanded opportunity and equality for countless Americans. From ending veteran homelessness to combating climate change, it has been my privilege to champion his priorities and apply them at the local level.”
 
As a state representative, Rick Kriseman was one of the first elected officials in Florida to endorse then Senator Obama for president in 2007. As mayor, Rick Kriseman took on the White House's challenge to end veteran homelessness, increased the minimum wage and paid parental leave for city workers, and has pledged to uphold the standards of the Paris climate agreement. Mayor Kriseman also worked with the Obama administration to launch the My Brother's Keeper initiative in St. Pete, and supported Obamacare enrollment efforts, helping thousands of people in St. Pete gain access to healthcare.