Mitchell Announces Bid For Re-Election And Giesta Responds

Mayor Jon Mitchell is touting an improving economy, safer streets and better schools as the foundation of his re-election campaign. The Mayor announced his candidacy for re-election Tuesday at Joseph Aboud Manufacturing in New Bedford.

The Mayor emphasized job creation in his remarks, saying the city has gained 3,000 jobs during his four-years in office. "This is a staggering feat for a city that has been plauged for decades with chronic unemployment, a stagnant tax base, and has struggled, spinning its tires," said the Mayor. "New Bedford is moving ahead, and moving ahead rapidly."

Mitchell also stressed the continued improvement in New Bedford schools. Mitchell said when he was first elected, he was advised to stay out of the schools...that urban school districts were too difficult to turn around. The Mayor says he ignored that advice, and both he and state officials believe, New Bedford is on the right path.

After the Mayor made his announcement, Mayoral candidate Maria Giesta welcomed him into the race. In a statement released late Tuesday morning, Giesta says "she looks forward to continue contrasting our leadership styles for the people of New Bedford."

Giesta says she appreciates Mitchell's service despite their disagreements on the issue. "While I believe Mayor Mitchell pushes tired policy ideas that yield underwhelming results. says Giesta, "if elected I will use my passion to represent all residents of New Bedford."