Memphis City Councilman Jim Strickland will not be running in the race for Memphis Mayor.
Strickland, a first-term councilman and attorney, sent an e-mail and Facebook message to friends and supporters this morning announcing the news.
Strickland had seriously considered a run after Mayor Willie Herenton announced his retirement June 25, speaking at a candidate forum and even conducting a poll earlier this week.
Supporters created a "Draft Jim Strickland" group on Facebook, which as of today has 1,143 members.
But Strickland decided against a run, saying it is "not the right time for me to launch a campaign."
Here's the letter that went out:
Dear Friends --
Thank you for the encouragement and support during the last several weeks as I seriously considered entering the special election Mayor of Memphis. I truly appreciate the faith and confidence you have in me.
After speaking with supporters, community leaders, and other Memphians throughout our city, I have decided not to run for Mayor at this time. I reviewed all aspects of the upcoming race and concluded that it was not the right time for me to launch a campaign for Mayor.
But make no mistake about it. I am still committed to our city and to work with the City Council to improve city services and the quality of life in Memphis for everyone. I will continue to push to make reduction in crime our number one priority. I look forward to working with our interim Mayor, as well as our next Mayor who will be elected in October.
I will always be appreciative of your efforts on my behalf, your encouragement, and your support. I am humbled by it all.
Thanks, Jim
Jim is a good man.
We understand your decision as there is always the future. Please continue to bring an atmosphere of responsibility & sanity to the city council. Thank you.