To the surprise of no one, Bob Buckhorn, who formally entered Tampa’s mayoral race a few weeks ago, has already landed a certain, high-profile endorsement. It’s the Tampa Fire Department. It underscores his organizational jumpstart — and early front-runner — status.
Recall his unsuccessful run for the mayor’s office in 2003. No one was going to beat Pam Iorio, including Buckhorn, Frank Sanchez and Charlie Miranda, but no one had a more detailed, smart-growth game plan for Tampa than Buckhorn. He will be formidable, no matter who else jumps in — and the wings are still crowded with those in waiting.