Kelly Downard, the republican councilman representing Metro Louisville's 16th district, has officially announced his candidacy to be Louisville's 2nd Metro Mayor. The announcement was made today from the rotunda of city hall.
Mr. Downards's prominent name, reputation and strong police support, now gives credence to a campaign, that until recently, was thought of as an offering for democratic sacrifice.
Downard says Louisville is in desperate need of new leadership. He was critical of Abramson's long tenure when he addressed newsmen, saying that since Abramson has led the city, it has fallen behind neighboring cities. He says it's behind Nashville and Cincinnati in attracting new business and young professionals.
Downard also said it is important for the police department to have a mayor who stands behind them. Louisville's police union, the Fraternal Order of Police, has been critical of Robert White, Abramson's pick for police chief.
Abramson said today he stands behind White and welcomes Downard to the race. Abramson said the city-county merger has so far been a success.