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Jonathan Saidel Decides Against 2015 Run for Philadelphia Mayor

By Mike Dunn

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Former Philadelphia city controller Jonathan Saidel says he will stay out of this year's mayoral race.

Two weeks ago, Saidel said that local unions were trying to coax him to run, and that he was giving the idea some consideration.

But now he tells KYW Newsradio that he has decided not to enter the fray.

"There are enough people running that people can make a wise choice," he said.

Saidel's decision comes amid indications that city councilman Jim Kenney is close to announcing that he'll run for mayor.  Kenney would like attract that same union support.

Saidel, 63, had been expected to run for mayor back in 2007, but opted out after his longtime political ally, Democratic party chief and congressman Bob Brady, decided to run.

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