New Developments In The Race For Philadelphia Mayor
By Mike Dunn and David Spunt
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Philadelphia's mayor's race -- which won't be finally decided for another year -- is quickly ramping up, and today brings formal announcements from two candidates.
Former District Attorney Lynne Abraham met supporters at the Franklin Institute to announce she's running for mayor.
This evening, State Senator Anthony Williams will do the same at the Independence Visitors Center.
Their announcements cap an already busy week. On Monday, City Controller Alan Butkovitz, who was widely expected to run for mayor, decided not to run, in part because of Abraham's arrival and in part because Council President Darrell Clarke may decide to enter as well.
Then on Tuesday, former Nutter spokesman Doug Oliver announced not his candidacy, but an exploratory committee. And he said if he runs for mayor it won't be as a Republican as he had earlier hinted, but as a Democrat.
Already in are former City Solicitor Ken Trujillo and the former head of the Redevelopment Authority, Terry Gillen.
Trujillo says, "I bring a bold vision for Philadelphia, a vision that includes taking back our schools, taking back public education, and providing an environment where all Philadelphians can thrive."
"He's been raising money all over the country. I have a tremendously high regard for him," Ed Rendell said.
Trujillo says his top issue of the campaign is education.
Gillen announced her candidacy in September.
Further possible candidates are Clarke, former Solicitor Nelson Diaz, and Councilman Jim Kenney.
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