Milton Street battles challenge to mayoral run

Milton Street is fighting for his political survival against a challenge that could result in his removal from the primary ballot as a Democratic contender for mayor in Philadelphia.

Assisted by the Nutter for Mayor Campaign, the challenge claims Street did not reside in the city long enough to qualify to run for mayor. The challenge also alleges the majority of the nominating petition signatures he collected are invalid.

Street, however, said Friday he has followed the rules.

“It was argued and litigated by the Commonwealth Court. The Commonwealth Court said I was a resident of Pennsylvania. When I was released from prison, they said I was a resident of Pennsylvania,” said Street. “When I was released from prison, they said that  (I) have to live at 6331 Farnsworth Street.”

Mayor Michael Nutter “should have come in with something substantive instead of wasting my time,” said Street. “I could be campaigning.”

Street said his petition circulators have done their job properly and the signatures qualify him to be on the ballot.  A judge overseeing the case has taken the matter under advisement.