So far, there’s no prominent Democrat with party support to run against Republican Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister.
In the past, Chronister hasn’t been a top target of Democrats in part because he’s cultivated an image as a non-partisan lawman, even attending Democratic events with his wife Nikki DeBartolo, a frequent Democratic donor.
But Democrats could feel more motivation this year after Chronister supported Gov. Ron DeSantis’s ouster of former State Attorney Andrew Warren.
Chronister and DeBartolo have both contributed to Republican State Attorney Suzy Lopez, who’s running for the office after being appointed by DeSantis to replace Warren. She may face Warren in 2024.
Democrat Gary Pruitt has filed to challenge Chronister again after losing to him by 19 points in 2020, when the local Democratic Party disowned his candidacy. County party chairperson Ione Townsend said she’s not aware of another serious potential challenger.
Chronister firmly denies rumors, arising from the couple’s recent sale of their Sunset Park mansion, that he plans to retire.
“I am absolutely, unequivocally seeking re-election,” he said.
Adding credence to the rumors: Past Hillsborough sheriffs have sought to give their chosen successors a leg up while still holding office.
Chronister became sheriff when former Republican Sheriff David Gee retired less than a year after winning re-election in 2016, and recommended Chronister for appointment as his replacement by then-Gov. Rick Scott.
