Chris Sprowls Gains Momentum Against Carl Zimmerman in Pinellas County House Race

Republicans have to increasingly like their chances of taking down Rep. Carl Zimmerman, D-Dunedin, in 2014.

Zimmerman, who represents parts of Pinellas County, defeated Republican incumbent Peter Nehr in 2012 after two previous bids. Nehr faced a contested primary and his chances werent helped when news broke that the Republican House member took risque photos of himself.

But now Republican Chris Sprowls, who has served as an assistant state attorney, is going all out to defeat Zimmerman. Sprowls had launched a bid against Nehr but pulled out in the early going. So far, Sprowls is outraising Zimmerman. In the second quarter of 2013, Sprowls raised almost $15,900 and has almost $46,000 in the bank. Zimmerman brought in $4,550 during the same period and has around $13,600 in the bank.

This is a pretty solid Republican district where the GOP enjoys a 10 percent registration advantage over the Democrats. Zimmerman is a hard worker and has roots in the area where he served as teacher. Against Nehr, he overcame a major financial disadvantage. But he wont have Barack Obamas and Bill Nelsons coattails in 2014. Sprowls is increasingly looking like a favorite over Zimmerman despite being the challenger.