Charles Smith to Run for Second Term

BRADENTON – Manatee County Commissioner Charles Smith (D-Dist. 2) filed to run for a second term to the BOCC this week. His district represents downtown Bradenton and much of Palmetto.

Smith narrowly edged incumbent Michael Gallen in the closest election in Manatee County history in 2014, when a recount showed him to have four more votes than the former Lakewood Ranch High School teacher.

Smith had previously served as a Palmetto City Commissioner. He has been a consistent voice for the most underprivileged members of the communities in his district, which includes some of the most poverty-stricken neighborhoods in Manatee County.

Smith did not respond to requests for comment.