T-Mobile VP says he'll run for Seattle mayor

Political newcomer Joseph Mallahan, a vice president at T-Mobile, says he is running for Seattle mayor.

The Wallingford resident is one of four challengers to Mayor Greg Nickels' bid for a third term. The other candidates are James Donaldson, Michael McGinn and Norman Sigler.

In a news release, Mallahan said he can raise enough money to match Nickels' fundraising.

Mallahan said that by the May 10 financial-reporting deadline, "I will be on par with the incumbent's war chest through grassroots fundraising, new social media and my own personal contribution to the campaign. The Mayor will no longer be able to hide behind his war chest or his political machine."

He has not yet filed with the city elections office.

The other candidates in the race have struggled to keep up with Nickels in fundraising. Nickels has about $300,000. Mallahan wouldn't say Thursday how much he plans to contribute to his own candidacy.

The South Everett native said his first priority in office would be providing basic city services.