Philadelphia Mayor's Race, Easy To Overlook

by KYW's Mike Dunn

With Philadelphians getting back to work and school, the two men running for mayor want to remind voters that the election is just two months away.

Democratic mayoral candidate Michael Nutter (left) has a simple message:

"It’s a campaign."

Many voters have not noticed. After a rough-and-tumble five way Democratic primary, civility broke out between Nutter and his GOP rival Al Taubenberger (lower right). But Nutter won't slow down:

"I'm very serious about the fall election. I'm not taking anything for granted."

The challenge is greater for the affable but under financed Al Taubenberger:

"My appearance schedule is really a heck of lot stronger after Labor Day. I'm already out, but I'll be out a heck of a lot more."

Both Taubenberger and Nutter say they respect their opponent, and they want to talk about issues not personalities. So don't expect fireworks as we head toward November 6th.

KYW's John Ostapkovich reports Labor Day is the traditional start of the campaign season and that remains true after Monday's rally and parade.

Both Philadelphia Mayoral candidates attended the rally, but only Democrat Michael Nutter spoke. To reporters, he focused on general issues:

"It don't think there's any Democrat or Republican way of solving the crime problem here in Philadelphia or making sure that kids get a great education or that we're creating jobs, lowering our taxes, supporting our culture, parks, and open space."

Republican Al Taubenberger also touts ideas:

"Independent thinking as far as reform needed in City Hall, efficiency of government and let's try and have a change. And what's wrong with a guy who's never been elected to office, who can think outside the box and has the guts to bring these programs forward?"

Taubenberger acknowledges he's an underdog but says, a year ago, so was Nutter.