By DAPHNE DURET
Palm Beach Post Staff Writer
STUART — At the end of his first contested race for public office in 14 years, incumbent Stuart commissioner Jeff Krauskopf coasted to another term Tuesday with a victory over political newcomer Jeff Callahan.
Krauskopf, 59, won more than 67 percent of the vote in Tuesday’s contest, according to unofficial elections results. Callahan, a 41-year-old Martin County lifeguard who had hoped to bring a fresh voice to the commission, received about 32 percent of the 1,047 ballots cast.

Krauskopf ran his campaign touting his experience, saying he and other city leaders’ foresight helped the city fare better than many other Florida cities through the economic downturn.
On Tuesday evening Krauskopf, who celebrated his victory with a quiet dinner with friends, expressed gratitude for those who helped him win his 13th term in office.
“I’m very humbled by the trust and confidence of the voters of Stuart,” said Krauskopf, who added that the contested race gave him an opportunity to connect with voters on a more personal level and hear ideas he plans to implement over the next two years.
Callahan was Krauskopf’s first challenger since he reclaimed a seat on the Stuart commission in 1995. A six-year Stuart resident, Callahan said he decided to run after he became concerned about the lack of businesses and affordable housing in the city.
Krauskopf, a Realtor and property manager, was first elected to public office in Stuart in 1984. In 1990, he left the Stuart office to hold a seat on the Martin County Commission.
daphne_duret@pbpost.com

Tags: Jeffrey Krauskopf

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