T. Milton Street officially kicked off his campaign for Mayor on Wednesday.
The announcement was followed by a rally in North Philadelphia on Thursday. Street says he is running for office to represent those who don't feel they have a voice.
He's also making a bold campaign promise, saying if he's elected Mayor he will settle contracts with the city municipal unions within 3 to 6 months. AFSCME District Council 47 and District Council 33 contracts expired Jun. 30, 2009.
Street is the only Democrat challenging incumbent Mayor Michael Nutter in the May 17th primary. Street says he has challenged the Mayor to a debate, but says he doesn't expect Nutter to agree.
"I am as serious as I have ever been in my life about running an aggressive campaign and mobilizing the don't-counts," said Street.
Street says low voter turnout in some Philadelphia neighborhoods is the result of not having candidates that effectively address their issues.
"I have to penetrate their passion, I have to penetrate their concern. I think I have the ability and the credibility to excite them," Street said.
