Second city council member announces run for Phoenix mayor

PHOENIX — Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton announced last week that he would run for Congress and, in the ensuing days, two city council members have already entered the race for his job.

Kate Gallego, who represents the city’s 8th District, announced Monday that she would run for mayor. She served as vice mayor for a time.

“As a councilwoman for this great city, I know what it takes to create jobs, improve transportation, protect neighborhoods and be responsible with your money,” she said in a statement. “I look forward to sharing my vision for the city with you and earning your vote.”

She was first elected to the council in 2013 and was re-elected in August.

In her time on the council, Gallego has worked on improving the city’s economy and transportation system. She also helped create the Phoenix Equal Pay Ordinance.

“When you are the fastest growing city in the country, you have to be smart,” she said in the statement. “We need to invest in our infrastructure, our universities, and most importantly our people.”

Gallego attended Harvard and graduated with a degree in environmental studies.

Should she win, Gallego would be the second female mayor in city history.

Gallego was married to U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) for six years. The couple announced their divorce late last year.

Another council member, Daniel Valenzuela, said Friday he would run for Stanton’s job.

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