Time to pull out the Official Frank Rizzo Candidate-Speak Translator to decipher what each of the "Could-Be" mayors is saying in their responses to the Committee of Seventy lawsuit over the definition of candidacy.
U.S. Rep. Chaka Fattah
I'm "exploring" how much of this unlimited money I can spend now on equipment, staff and other expenses so that when I start adhering to the limits I'll be able to use the money I raise in $2500 chunks almost exclusively on television ads. Heck, maybe I can even pay the rent for my campaign office up front before I declare my candidacy.
State Rep. Dwight Evans
I knew the power the city has over campaign finance regulations. Power to regulate campaign finance regulations was a friend of mine. You, city of Philadelphia, have no power to regulate campaign finance. (At least until I'm the mayor, then we'll talk).
Businessman Tom Knox
I've been talking to people in all different neighborhoods and they tell me that colorful posters with the words "Knox" and "mayor" would go a long way towards improving their quality of life. Guess City Council is regretting that they decided to pass on that "millionaire's exception."
Union Leader John Dougherty
Sure, sure, limits. Hey, Nutter! (mumbles)Candidate for mayor says what.
Councilman Michael Nutter
(rolling his eyes) Why am I even here?
Former controller Jonathan Saidel
If you think I'm late with this response, just wait until I have to start sending in those candidate questionnaires.
For more on this issue, there's a nice debate going on over at Young Philly Politics.