Metro Councilman Mike Walker has begun talking to some of his past donors about a possible run for mayor, but says he’s not throwing his hat in the ring just yet. “I am seriously considering it but have not made any official announcement,” Walker says, adding that he has no timeline in mind for making a decision. If he does decide to run for mayor, Walker says, he plans to continue to preside over council meetings as Mayor Pro Tempore. “I’m going to make the same decisions as a councilman, whether I’m running for mayor or not,” says Walker, who is term-limited and will not be able to run for re-election to the council next year. Meanwhile, Mayor Kip Holden’s camp isn’t taking any chances. Raising Cane’s founder Todd Graves has sent out an email on Holden’s behalf, asking recipients to consider becoming a member of “Kip’s Cavalry” by donating $5,000 per couple or business to Holden’s 2012 re-election campaign, preferably by Nov. 18. Graves calls Holden “a proven leader” who works to promote economic development and improve infrastructure. “As others jockey to see what races they will enter next year, it’s important to show our early financial support for Kip’s re-election,” Graves writes. “Kip has ONE LOVE for the Baton Rouge community and its people, so please join me in the effort to re-elect Kip as our Mayor in 2012!” “One love” is the Raising Cane’s slogan. Read a recent Business Report article about Walker’s history on the Metro Council and his possible political future here. —David Jacobs
Today’s poll question: Do you think Mike Walker should run for mayor?
