State Senate, Dist. 16: Sebesta easily wins second term

Republican Jim Sebesta, a political veteran who has worked to improve transportation on both sides of Tampa Bay, was easily re-elected to the state Senate on Tuesday.

With 82 percent of the 153 precincts reporting, Sebesta led challenger Allison McInnis-Gimbert by a 2-1 ratio.

"Of course, I'm very appreciative of the support," said Sebesta, 67.

Sebesta, chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee, campaigned on his four-year record of representing District 16, which bridges Tampa Bay to take in parts of South Tampa and western Hillsborough County, as well as northern St. Petersburg and part of eastern Pinellas County.

McInnis-Gimbert called for a fresh perspective and special attention to education and children, not roads.

Although her campaign signs dotted major highways and some neighborhoods, the 30-year-old Democrat raised only $8,000. Sebesta raised $181,000.

During his second term, Sebesta said, he will pay special attention to construction projects for U.S. 19 and Roosevelt and Ulmerton Roads, as well as launching an innovative project for Gandy Boulevard in Tampa. He also vowed to work on raising teacher salaries by at least $4,500 and help fix problems at the Department of Children and Families.