Candidates for San Jose Mayor Race Continues to Grow

With nearly six months left before the primary election, the field of candidates looking to lead California's third-largest city is already crowded.

Thursday marked the first day candidates for San Jose mayor can start raising campaign funding.

"I think we're going to have the most candidates we've had since 1971, when Norm Mineta ran in a field of 14," said Dr. Terry Christensen, professor emeritus at San Jose State University.

Christensen has studied San Jose politics for more than four decades. He's savoring the battle between councilmembers Sam Liccardo, Rose Herrera, Pieluigi Oliverio, Madison Nguyen and Pete Constant.

Insiders said the council meetings may get a little more political and testy.

"Oh yeah, it's going to be a yearlong battle," Christensen said.

Former councilman Forrest Williams said he is also running.

Santa Clara County Supervisor Dave Cortese is also on the ballot along with several other perennial candidates.

Money will be a major factor in the race, Christensen said.

"You got to raise a million bucks to be a legitimate candidate for mayor in San Jose," Christensen said. "It's a big city."

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