Ex-Assemblywoman Saldaña Makes Bid For San Diego Mayor Official

And mourners today Lori Saldana me to formally announce to run for San Diego Mayor challenging Kevin Faulconer. But she is not running as a Democrat. KPBS reporter was at today's announcement, Andrew welcome. And you, Maureen. What it Lori Saldana have to say about why she is running? She framed her campaign is a grassroots efforts. Her announcement was added grassroots organizing center. It's one that's free of corporate cash according to her, and special-interest. I think she and many others on the left didn't want the Mayor to have reelection without being challenged on his choices. Should recognize that her campaign is the underdog. And Kevin Faulconer has raised a lot of money and she has not started. Here's more when she had to say. For those who ask if this is a ridiculous question, I have to tell you that I was the daughter of a career Marine. He taught me that some battles are worth fighting. Challenges are worth taking on no matter what the odds are. And you, why is she running as an independent? Most people who know her in San Diego numerous a Democrat? She didn't go into whole details, she did say several times she is independent, as independent of special interest in corporate cash. She said even though she is no longer a Democrat that her values have not changed. Did she say why she waited so long to enter the race? No she did not, and nobody asked her that question. If she is not running as a Democrat, who is supporting her campaign on the that is to be determined. She was on the stage with a little over a dozen supporters. She said they were career professionals and business owners. She did not announce any endorsements, but she said she has been invited to speak at a lot of different organizations. I think you can be visiting the expected life groups. What issues did she mention? Edition want to focus on? She mentioned if you. She said she supports raising the minimum wage, which the mayor vetoed and San Diego's will be voting on the June. She is for implementing the climate action plan. I asked about infrastructure, she said she thinks the rebuild San Diego measure which are talking about show yesterday is a good start, and she would work with the Council on that. She said also that she is she doesn't want falconer falconer has not actually won a general election in November, and she wants to challenge him and make sure that he is really representing the will and the majority of the people. Mayor falconer has been going on in the cycle for quite some time with no challenger, what does his campaign say about Lori Saldana's entry into the race? I spoke to his campaign manager yesterday. He said that they had been expecting for quite a well now that somebody from the progressive side of politics would enter the race and in the open -- welcome the chance to the new dishes. Thank you. I've been speaking with Andrew Bolin. Thank you. A big energy, scored went on the -- the California Public utilities commission improved increase fees for rooftop solar owners. And stopped short of the higher charges of the states investors aren't utilities want to. We will have more on the solar vote on next week's Midday Edition. You are listening to KPBS Midday Edition.[ Music ]