Leftist Mexico City Mayor Says He Wants Presidency

MEXICO CITY (AP) – Mexico City’s leftist mayor, who has made a name for himself with handout programs and free parties, said Monday that he wants to make a run for the presidency in 2012.

Marcelo Ebrard said he “aspires” to be president but will wait until 2011 to declare any formal candidacy. Whether he declares will depend on how well he does as mayor.

Ebrard has launched a number of unusual programs in Mexico City, such as installing a free ice-skating rink in the capital’s main plaza and throwing free coming-out parties for poor 15-year-old girls.

Ebrard said in a radio interview that he won’t leave his leftist Democratic Revolution Party, as many members have done following a bitter leadership dispute.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)