Polls for Miami, St. Petersburg mayors race close

MIAMI — Voting has ended to select new mayors in Miami and St. Petersburg.

The polls closed at 7 p.m. EDT Tuesday.

Two city commissioners in Miami were vying to replace outgoing Mayor Manny Diaz, who has served two four-year terms and can't run again. Joe Sanchez wants to jump-start the economy by investing tax money in job-creating projects, while Tomas Regalado says major city-financed proposals should be put before voters.

In St. Petersburg, the choice was between two former county commissioners.

Bill Foster has the support of the city's business and political establishment, including popular outgoing Mayor Rick Baker.

Opponent Kathleen Ford emerged with a grass-roots campaign and sharp criticism of what she calls a local "good ol' boy" network.