Philadelphia Mayor's race: Councilmembers Maria Quiñones Sánchez, Derek Green announce candidacy

PHILADELPHIA - Two Philadelphia council members, Maria Quiñones Sánchez and Derek Green, have announced their plans to run for Philadelphia Mayor. 

Sánchez made the announcement Tuesday, saying, "I am a child of Philadelphia public housing, a lifelong activist, and Philadelphia's first Latina district Councilwoman." 

She says grappling with the problems of her district, which includes struggling Kensington, makes her ready to be mayor.

"When I look at the residents of the 7th district, which has many challenges, I see resilient people looking for leadership, looking for support," said Sánchez.

Green, who spent the last six years serving as Councilmember At-Large, also announced plans to run Tuesday. 

"Excited to tell you that I'm running for Mayor because Philadelphians should expect more and deserve better," he said in a tweet. 

The two are entering the race less than one month after former Philadelphia Councilmember Allan Domb resigned. He did not officially announce a bid for mayor, but in June, he said he was exploring the option. 

"Philadelphians should not have to choose between public safety and criminal justice, between reducing taxes or public services. Citizens are smart they’ll look for a mayor who can do both," said Green. 

The candidates have more than a year before the election, which is set to be held on November 7, 2023, and the elected winner will begin serving in 2024. 

Philadelphia City Council president Darrel L. Clarke released a statement reacting to their resignations, saying,: 

"Councilmembers Quiñones Sánchez and Green have communicated to me their resignations from City Council, effective today." 

Clarke praised Sánchez for her work advocating for those living in poverty and her strides in changing public education, calling her a "hard-working, passionate public servant who cares deeply about the people in her district and citywide." 

He also recognized Green as a "thoughtful voice on the City Council" while praising him for his efforts on tax reform and supporting small businesses. 

"I look forward to continuing to work with both of these public servants to benefit every Philadelphian."