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In a rousing speech that evoked “Fired, up, Ready to Go,” Old School 105.3 personality and mayor pro tem Patrick Cannon announced his intention to run for mayor.

Cannon, a Charlotte native, noted his dedication to public service as a five-term mayor pro-tem. He listed economic development, community safety, transportation and housing as his areas of focus.

Cannon would preside over a city council that has been divided in recent months over a street car proposal, capitol budget and airport authority. Cannon said he’s prepared to tackle the challenges the city faces.

“I am the change agent and leader that Charlotte needs to bridge the emerging divide,” he said. “I am a team player who knows how to build consensus.”

City council members Beth Pickering, Claire Fallon and Michael Barnes flanked Cannon. N.C. Music Factory founder Noah Lazes and Mohammad Jenatian, president of the Greater Charlotte Hospitality & Tourism Alliance joined about 50 other supporters including Cannon’s mother at the press conference at Elizabeth Park across from CPCC.

Republican Edwin Peacock, a former council member, previously announced his intentions to run for mayor. Cannon is the first Democrat to announce for the seat being vacated by Democratic incumbent Anthony Foxx. Foxx was nominated by President Barack Obama as U.S. transportation secretary. He is scheduled to begin confirmation hearings Wednesday in Washington.