Former Tampa Mayor Buckhorn to Run for Office Again

Buckhorn plans to file paperwork to enter the Tampa mayoral race this morning.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:02am

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A serene, painterly depiction of Tampa City Hall, its facade illuminated by warm, angled sunlight and cast in deep shadows, evoking a sense of civic nostalgia and anticipation for the city's political future.The return of a familiar face to Tampa's political landscape could signal a new chapter for the city.Today in Tampa

Former Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn is officially entering the race to reclaim his old job. Buckhorn plans to file his paperwork around 8:30 a.m. this morning, followed by a media event to announce his campaign.

Why it matters

Buckhorn's decision to run for mayor again is significant, as he previously served two terms as Tampa's mayor from 2011 to 2019. His return to politics could shake up the race and impact the city's future direction.

The details

Buckhorn, who served as Tampa's mayor from 2011 to 2019, is planning to file paperwork this morning to officially enter the race for mayor. Following the filing, he will hold a media event to formally announce his campaign.

  • Buckhorn plans to file his paperwork around 8:30 a.m. on Monday, April 13, 2026.

The players

Bob Buckhorn

Former mayor of Tampa who served two terms from 2011 to 2019 and is now entering the race to reclaim his old job.

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What’s next

Buckhorn's entry into the race is expected to shake up the Tampa mayoral election, and voters will be closely watching to see how his campaign unfolds.

The takeaway

Buckhorn's decision to run for mayor again demonstrates his continued interest in shaping Tampa's future. His return to politics could have significant implications for the city's leadership and policy direction.