Former leader of the Ontario New Democratic Party Andrea Horwath announces her candidacy for the position of Hamilton mayor in the municipal elections in October.

The 59-year-old politician confirmed rumors of her intention to enter the race at a press conference held this morning, Tuesday.
 

Horwath began her career in public service as a member of the Hamilton City Council in 1997 before entering provincial politics in 2004.

She also served as leader of the Ontario New Democratic Party for 13 years – and four elections.

She resigned from her position as party leader in June after failing to secure the premiership in the recent elections.

Whispers began circulating that Horwath would return to her roots in city council after current mayor Fred Eisenberger announced he would not seek re-election after three years in office.

Other candidates competing for the position include former mayor and Liberal MPP Robby Bratina, former mayoral candidate and taxi union president Ejaz Butt, and former CEO of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce Ken Lumis.

It is worth noting that the municipal elections are on October 24.