Libertarian Radio Host Challenges Kathleen Peters

Radio show host and hypnotist Robert Saviola is challenging state Rep. Kathleen Peters, R-St. Petersburg, on the Libertarian line. 

"I wanted to just relax under a palm tree," Saviola said on Tuesday morning. "The problem is I have children and, for them, and for all of your children and grandchildren, we need to get our Constitution back." 

The new candidate called for lower taxes and reducing incarceration rates on victimless crimes. Saviola explained why he left the GOP.  

“There is no longer a Republican Party," Saviola said. "The Republicans and the Democrats are both on the same side, their side. There is only the illusion of two parties, of which neither one truly cares about our Constitution, our freedoms, or us. Unless we all wake up to this fact, there will be little chance for our children to experience the America that you and I were fortunate enough to have been able to live in."

An Air Force veteran, Saviola hosts a radio show based in Buffalo, N.Y., even though he lives in Treasure Island. Saviola’s campaign also played up his role as a “successful hypnotist” who “helps his clients build confidence, overcome stress, fears, smoking, and more.”