First declared candidate for mayor in Tempe: Mark Mitchell

In a development that really wasn't very surprising, Tempe City Councilman Mark Mitchell has entered the race for mayor of Tempe.

From the Arizona Republic, written by Dianna Nanez -

Longtime councilman Mark Mitchell told The Arizona Republic today that he will run for mayor next year.

Mitchell's father, Democratic political icon Harry Mitchell, will stand by his side when he makes a formal announcement Wednesday night at a Tempe gathering.

Rather than shy away from the shadow that his father's extensive political career will cast on his run, Mitchell said he is embracing the values, worth ethic and love of Tempe he shares with his dad.

Mark Mitchell is nearing the end of his third term as a member of Tempe's city council.  While many considered him to be a possible candidate for mayor next year, his candidacy was made all-but-inevitable when the incumbment mayor, Hugh Hallman, decided not to run for reelection next year (rumors are that Hallman will run for Congress next year, or for statewide office in 2014).

Mark is a lifelong Tempean, growing up in Tempe, attending Tempe schools and ASU, and is an executive with a Tempe business.

Mitchell's campaign website is here.

Stayed tuned for more updates as they become available.