Naya Young Triumphs in Tampa City Council Runoff, Set to Take Office Following Historic Election
Naya Young Triumphs in Tampa City Council Election, Set to Bring Fresh Perspective to City Hall
TAMPA, FL — In a stunning upset, grassroots activist Naya Young has emerged victorious in one of Tampa’s most competitive single-seat elections, defeating seasoned politician Thomas Scott in a runoff held on October 17, 2025. Young, a proud graduate of Middleton High School, the University of South Florida, and Howard University, is poised to take her seat at Tampa City Hall following the certification of election results on October 31.
Young’s victory comes in the wake of the passing of Councilwoman Gwen Henderson, whose death prompted the special election. The race initially featured a crowded field of 14 candidates, but Young’s determination and community-focused campaign resonated with voters, allowing her to secure 61% of the vote against Scott’s 39%.
With 26 of 28 precincts reporting, Young garnered 3,053 votes, a significant leap from her second-place finish in the primary where she received 13.29% of the vote. Her win marks a pivotal moment for Tampa, as she becomes the first candidate without prior elected office experience to claim the District 5 seat in over a decade.
Despite facing a considerable fundraising disadvantage—Scott raised $62,695 compared to Young’s $26,643—Young’s campaign thrived on grassroots support. She received 201 individual donations, compared to Scott’s 138, highlighting her ability to connect with the community. While Scott’s funding largely came from developers and contractors, Young’s strongest support stemmed from educators and local residents seeking change.
“I think it’s just a true testament to people in the city who really believe in wanting something new, wanting a fresh perspective—not wanting to continue going on like politics as usual,” Young stated. “We need something new in the city, and I’m proud of that number.”
Scott, who previously served on the city council from 2007 to 2011 and as a Hillsborough County Commissioner, expressed disappointment in his loss but emphasized his long-standing commitment to the community. His campaign was backed by notable figures, including former Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn, who praised Scott’s experience and stability.
As Tampa grapples with rising housing costs and rapid development, Young’s victory signals a shift towards prioritizing community needs over developer interests. Her campaign focused on addressing the concerns of residents who feel priced out of their own neighborhoods, promising to advocate for policies that benefit the community at large.
Young is set to be sworn in at the city council chambers on October 31, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Tampa’s governance. As she prepares to take office, the city eagerly anticipates the fresh ideas and perspectives she will bring to the council.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates as Naya Young embarks on her journey to reshape Tampa’s future.