Mayoral Potentials - Part II

Yesterday I covered the names of Republicans who are rumored to be interested in the mayor's office in Fort Wayne. Now I'll cover the Democrats who have an interest.

First off, it doesn't matter who else wants it as long Grahm Richard wants to keep it. Should he decide to re-run there will not be any other contenders except maybe David Roach.

Graham Richard - There has been speculation as to whether Graham Richard will attempt to keep his job and seek a 3rd term. He seems to try and not commit to running in next year's election. This is because he is keeping a close watch on Evan Bayh's bid for President. Should that campaign appear to gain the neccessary momentum to make him a top challenger then Graham may hitch himself to that bandwagon in the hopes of getting a cabinet job. Should that campaign appear to be middle of the pack then he will probably run for mayor again.

Other factors causing Graham to question a re-run is the political makeup of the city after the most recent annexations. Aboite is heavily Republican and has some of the highest turnout in the county. It may be a lot more of a fight than he wants to put forth.

As an incumbent he has some inherent advantages, he also has the support of his base and is the strongest fundraiser in the Democratic Party. His most notable weakness is the memo that was leaked concerning his office' interest in annexing more of Perry township.

John Shoaff - Shoaff is most known for his advocacy of the city's park system. That and the park named for his ancestor. He's intelligent and well-spoken but has not been a visible or dominant member of the city council. John Crawford, Sam Talarico, and fellow Democrat Tim Pape are often overshadowing him.

While he would get his party's full support should he be their candidate, I question whether he can get enough independents and crossover Republicans to win.

Geoff Paddock - He has the charisma and public service record that could serve his purposes as a candidate. He is currently on the FWCS board of trustees in an elected position. The fact that it is non-partisan position is important as it gives him credibility with voters who would normally just look the other way depending on party lines. He also has strong funding capabilities as seen in his unsuccessfu bid to succeed Ben GiaQuinta.

The only major weaknesses he exhibits are related to his recent primary loss. That loss may make some in his party question his viability in a larger race. It also may play head games with his self-confidence and desire to attain the post.


The Democrats can do nothing until Graham decides what he wants to do. If he runs its his. Should he decide to go elsewhere then it could be a fight.