Who’s running to be Charleston’s mayor?

Seven Charleston leaders filed to run for mayor in 2015 to replace long-timer Mayor Joe Riley; one has withdrawn.  Each was invited to write an op-ed (see below) of why they want to be mayor.

Candidates include (in alphabetical order):

Ginny Deerin, former nonprofit executive, political operative. (op-ed scheduled for 9/21)

William Dudley Gregorie, member of Charleston City Council, district 6. (op-ed, 3/2)

Toby Smith, nonprofit consultant and minister, West Ashley (op-ed scheduled for 9/7)

Leon Stavrinakis, state representative, West Ashley (op-ed scheduled for 9/14)

John Tecklenburg, commercial Realtor and former city economic development director. (op-ed scheduled for 9/28)

Maurice Washington, former city council member (op-ed, 7/20)

No longer in the race

Paul Tinkler, attorney and former city council member. (Filed, but withdrew on 9/2)