Rudy Bradley

Bradley was born in St. Petersburg, Florida, in the Gas Plant neighborhood.^[3] He was the first black athlete at the University of Tampa, and earned a scholarship in 1966 before graduating in 1969. He earned a master's degree in social work.

He has four children, Adia, Ernest, Michael, and Andre.^[1]

He returned to St. Petersburg and was a social worker in Pinellas County Schools for more than 20 years.^[3]

Bradley was initially elected in a special election to replace Doug Jamerson after his appointment as Florida Commissioner of Education. In the Democratic primary, he came first in a five person race. He won the General Election with 71.9% of votes.^[4]

In his 1996 campaign, he was unopposed for reelection.^[5]

While in the House, Bradley sponsored a measure to create $3-million in college scholarships for minority teachers. "I stand behind what the voters of District 55 have told me, resoundingly. . .that education and economic development will resolve the issues of crime."^[3]

Bradley was a speaker at the 2000 Republican National Convention.^[6]