In a letter accompanying the qualifying papers, Fruit pointed out that in matters where the city charter is silent, state law prevails. In consultation with the city attorneys, Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Pam Iorio decided to alter past practice and allow Fruit to file as an official write-in candidate.

Fruit’s press release on the day of the filing stated that she "joins with millions of workers, farmers, and young people who are more and more standing in resistance to the world we face of economic depression and imperialist wars."

"Her campaign," continued the press release, "will explain that the problems of working people in the city of Tampa are not unique and can only be solved through a struggle against capitalism. We offer a revolutionary program to unite working people around the world in a common struggle that can take on and defeat our common enemy--the superwealthy U.S. ruling class--and replace their government with a workers and farmers government."

The next day the candidate, who is a meat packer and member of the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1625, campaigned with supporters among the 1,500 people participating in a rally opposing the U.S. drive to war against Iraq. The demonstration was held outside of MacDill Air Force Base, home of the U.S. Central Command, whose officers will take charge of the invasion.  
 
 
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