Ayanna Pressley Jumps Into At-Large Race

It's official: Ayanna Pressley, state political director for US Senator John Kerry, is filing her application this morning to run for Boston City Council, and opening a campaign account.

Pressley informed other candidates of her decision yesterday, and a campaign spokesperson just confirmed for me that she is in the process of filing.

As readers of this blog know, I've been goading Pressley into running for some time now. Clearly, she has succumbed to my nagging.

Of course, now that she's been suckered in, she gets no special treatment. In fact, she has now displayed what I consider a serious character flaw: the desire to be on the Boston City Council. (Of course, the other candidates have the same problem.)

Pressley is the 20th person to sign up with the city election department for the at-large race -- and I think there are more to come. Not all will get the necessary signatures for the ballot, of course. Still, quite a mix to choose from. She is the second woman in the field, and is considered by many a strong candidate for one of the four seats.

Update: Pressley just sent me this statement:

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After thoughtful consideration, I have decided to run for an At-Large seat on the Boston City Council because I believe I have the background, experience, and vision to help provide strong, creative leadership during these difficult economic times. With working families struggling to make ends meet daily and young people facing a future of few opportunities, Boston needs a leader who can bring accountability, accessibility, and advocacy to the Council. 
 
I have more than 14 years of experience serving the people of Boston through my work for Congressman Joseph Kennedy and Senator John Kerry. I have been an active force in fostering civic engagement by participating in local non-profits and other community organizations.

Now, with the encouragement and support of my family and the communities I have worked with and for, I will be leaving my post with Senator Kerry to pursue an At-Large seat on the Boston City Council.  I look forward to this challenge, and to having the opportunity to continue to advocate for the citizens of Boston in this critically municipal role. I am excited to hear from you, in person or on my website- www.ayannapressley.com -in the coming weeks as my campaign officially launches.