TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) - In a Friday morning statement, Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum said he will not be running for Congress.
The mayor released this statement on his decision:
"These last few months I have had the opportunity to think back on all that we have accomplished in our first year. From investing in the needs of children and families, to building an inclusive and vibrant quality of life, to growing a new economy where innovation thrives and hardworking people can work to get ahead.
My reflections have shown me that my heart is with the City of Tallahassee. I will continue to assess how I can best serve our community and state in the future, but I am committed to fulfilling my term and building on the tremendous progress we have already made.
In making this decision, I realize that there may still be major shifts in the race for the 5th Congressional District. Despite this anticipated change, my decision is final, as is my pledge to continue serving the citizens of Tallahassee.
I believe that our City needs a strong voice at the state and national level that can represent our best interests, and I look forward to continuing to use my role as Mayor to fight every day on behalf of my community."
In December, the Mayor's Office said they had been reached out to regarding a possible Congressional run.
"People are reaching out to Mayor Gillum because Washington desperately needs the type of energy and focus he brings every day as Mayor, creating new jobs and opportunities to get ahead. He's listening and will make his decision on how he can best continue creating new jobs and opportunities, while also being a great husband and father," said Mayoral adviser Kevin Cate in December.
Gillum made national headlines in November after saying that Syrian refugees were welcome in Tallahassee. This went directly against Governor Rick Scott's message to Congress that the state would refuse to allow the refugees within its borders.
Gillum was elected Mayor of Tallahassee in August of 2014. Prior to his election, Gillum served on the Tallahassee City Commission. He was the youngest person ever to be elected to the commission at the age of 23.
The mayor grew up in Gainesville and came to Tallahassee for college, attending Florida A&M University.
