Strayhorn makes run for mayor official

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Ending months of speculation, Carole Keeton Strayhorn officially announced Monday she wants to be the next mayor of Austin . Strayhorn is the former state comptroller, a former gubernatorial candidate and also served as Austin's first woman mayor from 1977 to 1983. Before a diverse group of her supporters, Strayhorn said she is energized.

"We have the best city in the nation," said Strayhorn. "We have the best people in the nation and we deserve the best government in the nation."

During the official announcement, Strayhorn criticized the city for passing a budget for this year that was more than $100 million more that what was originally expected. She also said there is too much bureaucratic red tape.

Although she was the mayor for Austin, Strayhorn said she represents the future. Strayhorn also said she wants to improve transportation problems and be more fiscally responsible. However, when asked how or what her plans were to solve problems, she did not elaborate.

"The citizens of Austin are going to hear in detail from Carole Keeton Strayhorn in the next few months how we can have a fiscally responsible government and how we can create paychecks and jobs in this city," said Strayhorn.

Current Mayor Pro Tem Brewster McCracken has already officially announced he is running. Current council member Lee Leffingwell may run, as well as the former Texas Monthly publisher Mike Levy. The election is in May.