Gretchen Newsom announced she plans to run for mayor of San Diego in 2016 at this weekend's 6th Biennial San Diego County Democratic Convention.
Newsom — who is president of the Ocean Beach Town Council — is political director of San Diego's branch of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers union.
Newsom said she wasn't planning on running for mayor, but believes San Diego needs a Democratic leader in the top office.
"I heard the call and we need to stand up for our communities," Newsom said. "We are Democrats, and we stand up for what is right. I am standing here because San Diego deserves strong leadership, and it is up to Democrats to answer that call."
Francine Busby, chair of the San Diego County Democratic Party, said Newsom would make a good mayor for the 8th largest city in the nation.
"Gretchen is an experienced, informed, and articulate leader who is committed to the values that are important to San Diegans," Busby said. "She will be a formidable challenger to Mayor (Kevin) Faulconer."
