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Save This PageAs the Richmond Times-Dispatch talked with business and community leaders, local officials and others recently, several names of possible and likely Richmond mayoral candidates emerged. Candidates must file paperwork by June 10 to be on the Nov. 4 ballot. Here's a look at the possible and likely candidates.
Viola O. Baskerville Virginia secretary of administration in Gov. Timothy M. Kaine's administration: "A lot of people are putting my name out there. I am very flattered, and of course I love public service and I love the job I'm doing now. . . . At this point, although many are considering the option for me, I have spoken to the governor and told him . . . I've made a commitment to this administration."
Paul GoldmanFormer adviser to Richmond Mayor L. Douglas Wilder: Goldman, who also advised Wilder in his successful run for governor, declared his own candidacy for mayor last week. He said his priorities include building schools, complying with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, reducing administrative spending at City Hall and lowering taxes.
David M. HicksFormer Richmond commonwealth's attorney: "Am I considering it? Yes." But Hicks said he continues to weigh family matters and keep an eye on who enters the race.
J.M. 'Jackie' JacksonFormer member of Richmond City Council and School Board: "I am pretty much in the race. I have a team."
Del. Dwight Clinton JonesD-Richmond: "If I decide to do something like that, I would be in touch in a couple weeks," he said, adding that he has no deadline for deciding whether to run.
Rudolph C. McCollum Jr.Former Richmond mayor who lost in a four-way race in 2004: "You know, if I had a dollar for every person who's asked me [to run], I wouldn't have to work. . . . I'm still evaluating all my options, but it's certainly a possibility."
William J. PanteleRichmond City Council president: "My thoughts are limited to what is best for Richmond, and other decisions flow from that. I'm certainly hearing a lot of disappointment [about Wilder] among the public."
Silver PersingerCommunity activist and former City Council candidate: "I think I'm pretty sure I'm not running for mayor. I think I would have a better chance of getting a council district" seat in the 5th District. "I like to keep my options open."
Bruce W. TylerRichmond City Council member, 1st District: He says he is focused on re-election. "That's where I am now, unless a lot of things change." Tyler said he has been asked by "a lot of people to run and I appreciate that. But I want it to be a broad-based coalition when I do."
L. Douglas WilderRichmond mayor: The mayor said he still has work to do to improve efficiency in city government, adding, "I've got five years to do it." Asked if that meant he will seek re-election, he said, "I'll be here."
Lawrence E. Williams Sr.An architect who lost in a four-way race for mayor in 2004: "I am considering it," he said, adding that he may also decide to run for the 6th District City Council seat held by Ellen F. Robertson.
