The Larry Kane Report

We have learned that Chaka Fattah,The Congressman from Philadelphia, has been paying some well timed visits to Democrat and Republican fund raisers and power brokers to let them know that he will probably announce a bid for the Democratic nomination for Mayor of Philadelphia. Fattah has told the movers and shakers that he will likely announce in November.

Why not now?

Fattah is feeling intense pressure from ward leaders and supporters of Congressman Bob Brady, the city’s Democratic chief. Brady is nearing a decision on whether to run. Fattah is making his rounds to let the power players know not to count him out. But some of them are not convinced and here is why:

If the Democrats retain control of Congress in November, the Congressman will be up for selective committee assignments, maybe some key chairmanships. If that happens would he stay in Washington? And if he should make a commitment to running for Mayor, would the Democratic leadership reward him in Congress if he has plans to run for Mayor?

Fattah is an attractive candidate. But so is Brady who is famous as a bridge builder and political healer. The good news for both is that they can run for Mayor without giving up their seats in Congress.

At this point Brady and Fattah are treating each other with great respect, along with classy former Councilman Michael Nutter . But behind the scenes it is a different story with party loyalists understanding that in politics early support is the most cherished.

That’s why Chaka Fattah has been meeting and greeting with the people who have the power to raise money and influence many elements of the electorate.

With the Philadelphia Republicans wanting for a candidate, the Democratic Primary in May of 2007 will be for all the marbles. That’s why August 2006 is almost prime time for the men who want to be Mayor.

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