Mendelson may run for D.C. Council Chair

WASHINGTON - Another D.C. Councilmember could be eyeing higher office.

The buzz inside City Hall is that D.C. At-Large Councilmember, Phil Mendelson (D) is considering running for Chairman of the Council should current Chairman Vince Gray (D), decide not to run for re-election.

"I am focused on my re-election campaign," Mendelson, who is up for re-election for his Council seat, tells WTOP.

"I've been around long enough to know you never say never."

Mendelson will face at least one serious challenger if he decides to try to keep his At-Large seat.

Clark Ray, the former Director of the D.C. Parks and Recreation Department, has announced his quest for Mendelson's seat.

Gray has been toying with the idea of challenging Mayor Adrian Fenty next year, but hasn't made any announcement.

Councilmember Jack Evans (D Ward 2) has already said if Gray doesn't run for chair, he will.

When asked if he is could categorically deny that he would run for chair, Mendelson again said, "never say never."

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