Orlando Gudes Exits Tampa Council Race Amid Residency Controversy

Tampa, Florida, USA - Orlando Gudes has made headlines again, but this time for withdrawing from the Special Election for Tampa City Council, District 5. This decision comes after questions about his residency eligibility were raised following a report detailing that he did not meet the necessary residency guidelines to run for the seat. Gudes, who previously served as a City Council member from 2019 until 2023, stated that he made the withdrawal in consultation with legal counsel due to financial and logistical strains arising from his situation. He aimed to provide stable housing for his daughter and her three children after her serious accident, which necessitated a move from his previous home in District 7, where he had been residing since July 21, 2023. Gudes insisted that voters should focus on his physical residence rather than changes to his voter registration, which he switched on June 17 to an undisclosed location within District 5.

His decision to withdraw follows the passing of Councilwoman Gwendolyn Henderson, who defeated him in the 2023 election by a narrow margin of 70-77 votes. Despite facing significant allegations of creating a hostile work environment during his previous term, Gudes has continued to deny any wrongdoing and was even reimbursed by the city for $45,000 in legal fees related to a dismissed sexual harassment lawsuit. The city investigation into workplace claims found several allegations to be credible, contributing to the controversies surrounding his previous service.

A Competitive Race Ahead

With Gudes out of the running, the field has changed for the District 5 race. Ten other candidates remain, including Ariel Amirah Danley, Thomas Scott, Juawana Colbert, and eight others. The Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections, Craig Latimer, has laid out a timeline for the special election. The qualifying period for candidates runs from August 11 to August 15, with early voting scheduled from September 4 to September 7. Voters will have the chance to cast their ballots from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day, September 9.

Reflecting on his past, Gudes has expressed that he was motivated to run again after hearing requests from constituents who valued his prior work. He plans to refocus on issues that matter to minority communities, such as economic empowerment and youth programs, claiming that he intends to continue many of the projects initiated by Henderson, especially those aimed at supporting young people.

As the race heats up, it will be essential for potential candidates and voters alike to stay informed. Moreover, regarding voter registration, it’s important to note that in Florida, registration must be completed 29 days before the election. Individuals can register at various locations, including local elections offices, libraries, and even online. Floridians must also be aware of specific requirements, such as presenting a photo ID with a signature while voting, to ensure they can participate actively in this critical election.

With Gudes stepping back, the memory of past controversies lingers, and the community is now tasked with considering who will best serve their interests moving forward. The current candidates now have a broader opportunity to appeal to the voters of District 5. As we approach the election date, the engagement from the community will undoubtedly shape the outcome of this race.