In one corner is a wing of progressive candidates with grassroots backing, running with an emphasis on investing in city libraries and recreation centers,In the other corner is a trio of business-aligned candidates with support from urbanist and pro-development groups, who want to improve quality-of-life city services and create friendlier economic conditions for small businesses.
shape the ideological balance of Philadelphia government for the next four years, especially on such issues as budgetary priorities, taxes, and development policy, where Council has the greatest influence. Years of clashing with progressive lawmakershave also pushed often-siloed business groups to align behind a slate of candidates.
seven figures and plans to air TV ads backing what it views as a business-friendly slate in the Council race. Progressives groups plan to spend, too, while leaning heavily on door-knocking campaigns to get out the vote. “We have a very solid pool of candidates, so it becomes about how you are speaking about the issues, instead of what issues,” said Kyle Darby, president of Darby Public Strategies, a political consultant who is not advising any candidates in the race. “It’s about their style, what relationships they have, and where they’ve worked prior.”will advance to the general election for at-large Council seats, which they are likely to win, given Philadelphia’s deep blue leaning.