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LONG BEACH (CNS) - Long Beach City Councilwoman Suzie Price announced today that she will run for mayor of the South Bay city.
In launching her bid to replace outgoing Mayor Robert Garcia, who is running to represent the 42nd Congressional District, Price emphasized her ability to bridge divisions to make government work for the people.
``For over 30 years, I have been proud to call Long Beach my home,'' Price said. ``As a city councilwoman, I have always focused on delivering for Long Beach residents, not delivering big speeches. We all believe that Long Beach can truly be a great city, but if we are to achieve our promise, we must have a City Hall that works.''
The councilwoman will be facing off against Vice Mayor and Ninth District City Councilman Rex Richardson and former councilwoman Gerrie Schipske. Assemblyman Patrick O'Donnell, D-Long Beach, confirmed last week that he will not be running for the post and will also not seek re-election to the Assembly.
Price, who also serves as a prosecutor for the Orange County District Attorney's Office, promised a platform focused on homelessness, public safety and quality of life issues, calling it a ``back to basics'' plan.
``As a mother, the health of schools, parks, environment and neighborhoods is personal for me. As a local small business owner, I understand the challenges of what it takes to keep your doors open, and the need to maintain a strong economy,'' Price said.
``As a prosecutor, I know how effective criminal justice reform is needed, and how everyone deserves safe streets, parks, sidewalks and buses, no matter what neighborhood they live in. And like every Long Beach resident, I know first hand the failure to address homelessness.''
Price said her interest in politics began with wanting a crosswalk and ending up in a campaign for city council to make it happen.
The would-be mayor was born in North Carolina, moved to Iran as an infant and fled that country with her mother when she was 7 years old, according to her campaign. She has bachelor's and master's degrees in Public Policy and Administration from Cal State Long Beach and earned her law degree at Santa Clara University School of Law.
Price also claims the distinction of being the first Democrat elected in her Long Beach council district in 42 years when she first won the seat in 2014, which she points to as evidence of her crossover appeal.
The deadline for nominations for the June 7th primary is March 11.