Garry McCarthy announces run for mayor of Chicago

CHICAGO (Fox 32 News) - Former Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy announced Monday night he will run for mayor against Rahm Emanuel.

McCarthy released the following statement regarding his campaign for mayor:

“It is no secret that Chicago is on the wrong path. This administration has brought us our failed education system, the overwhelming tax burden on hard-working people, and the violent crime that plagues the entire city. Over the past year, thousands of Chicagoans have approached and encouraged me to run for mayor to fix these problems. Under the current administration, we've heard nothing but broken promises from City Hall. When our Mayor focuses on politics, and not problem solving, none of us can move forward. It's time for new leadership that will fix our problems and pull us together. After thoughtful consideration and at the urging of my supporters, community leaders, and my family, I am officially announcing that I am running for Mayor of Chicago.

With your help, I will humbly work in service to this city, each and every day.”

Just last month, McCarthy appeared on FOX 32’s “Flannery Fired Up” and defended Chicago police officer Jason Van Dyke's decision to open fire on Laquan McDonald, who was fatally wounded in 2014.

“Everybody says he's walking away. It's not true to me. Walking away means you're going in that direction and I’m standing here. That's not the case,” McCarthy said.

Mayor Emanuel fired McCarthy amid turmoil following the fatal shooting of McDonald, which sparked citywide protests.

Emanuel issued the following statement Wednesday night:

"Anyone who thinks Chicago is only "ONE of the greatest cities in the world" not only does not deserve to be mayor of Chicago but does not make the minimum requirement needed to run for mayor of Chicago. Until Garry learns that Chicagoans do not share his desire to become New York City he is going to struggle in this proud town."