Ben Diamond will not run for St. Petersburg Mayor, he announced Thursday evening.

The news comes after Diamond had, over the Summer, message-tested a possible bid against incumbent Mayor Ken Welch .

“As many of you know, I have spent the summer considering running for Mayor of St. Petersburg in 2026. I am grateful for the insights and encouragement I received from so many community leaders, friends and residents who love our City like I do. But after some reflection and private time with our family over the last couple of weeks, I have concluded now is not the right time for me to seek a return to public office,” the former state Representative told Florida Politics.

“Public service is a passion, and I care deeply about St. Petersburg’s future. But my family takes priority no

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