Lamont Jones
A Harrisburg legislator has thrown his hat into the ring for next year’s mayoral election.
City Council member Lamont Jones announced on Thursday that he would run for mayor on a platform of “change” and “progressive leadership.”
“Today, as I declare my intention to run for mayor, I do so with the utmost gratitude for a city’s faith in me to serve, and in their desire for me to lead,” Jones said, in a statement. “I believe running for mayor allows our city an opportunity for a new era–a new chapter in a city that for too long has operated on traditional, yet outdated and oftentimes counterproductive, policies and procedures.”
Jones has served one year on city council as the chair of public safety.
Following his nomination as a Democratic nominee for council during the primary, Jones’ eligibility was challenged by a lawsuit that cited his past criminal convictions as disqualifying him for office. However, Jones successfully defended his candidacy, was later elected to office and received a pardon from the state for his convictions, which dated back 20 years.
Jones is the founder of Jones Resources, which helps find jobs for people with criminal backgrounds. He has also served as an activist for those re-entering society after prison.
While on council, Jones has spoken in support of issues around combating gun violence and supporting local, minority-owned contractors in city construction projects, among other topics.
According to Jones, if elected, he will seek to provide a new vision and direction for the city.
“I’ve been honored to serve as an elected city councilman committed to ensuring that we see that change,” Jones said. “I’ve worked tirelessly with community residents and officials alike to bring fresh ideas and perspectives. Now the time has come to push the envelope further, with hopes of bridging a new gap—that of a mayoral leader working with its council.”
The primary election for mayor will take place in May, with a November general election.
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