Many Pittsburghers Understanding Of Mayor's Decision To Not Seek Re-Election
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- It was shortly after 11 a.m. when Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl made an announcement that many had already expected. He would not seek another term as Pittsburgh's mayor.
It did not take long for word to hit the street.
"The man's done a wonderful job for us," city resident Maurice Cherell said. "Like I said, if he feels he has to step down, do what he has to do for himself and his family, then so be it."
"Part of me wonders if there's other factors involved in his decision; but obviously, it's not a job that everyone would want to take on," added Matt Diersen, who works in the city.
During his announcement, Ravenstahl cited many of his accomplishments, including the modernization of Market Square.
One business owner there said without the mayor, it would be hard to be as successful as he's been thus far.
"Ravenstahl is always for Market Square, so it's sad that he isn't running for another term," business owner Jordan Nicholas said.
The mayor also said it was simply too much for his family life, and personally, the scrutiny of being the leader of a major city. The vast majority of the people KDKA spoke to say they understand.
- Listen to Franklin & Marshall College Professor of Public Affairs Dr. G. Terry Madonna talk about mayoral responsibility:
A Mayor's Responsibility
"It is disappointing, and I feel sorry for him," said Michelle Boyd, who works in Pittsburgh.
"He's been doing pretty good things while he was here in the City of Pittsburgh," added Cherell, "but if he feels he can't take the stress anymore, then he's doing the right thing for himself and the City of Pittsburgh."
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