jean quan is almost running for oakland mayor

Last week in Oakland, Councilwoman Jean Quan took a major step toward running for mayor by launching a formal fundraising and volunteer drive: Jean Quan makes move on Oakland mayoral race.

She is likely to face former state Senate leader Don Perata in the race to lead Oakland, which is reeling from budget cuts and continues to struggle with crime and school performance. Mayor Ron Dellums has not yet decided whether he will run for re-election.

Quan has represented the Montclair, Dimond, Laurel and Maxwell Park neighborhoods for six years on the council, following her 12-year stint on the Oakland school board. An Oakland native, she worked as a union organizer before entering politics.

By forming an exploratory committee, Quan hopes to recruit 500 volunteers and raise $380,000, the maximum allowed for an Oakland mayoral campaign. If elected, she would be the city's first woman and first Asian American mayor. More here: Jean Quan Is Running for Mayor - Almost.