New York, NY - City Council Speaker Raising Mayoral Speculation

New York, NY - City Council Speaker Quinn kicked off a five-borough "Community Conversation" in Brooklyn - raising speculation that she's considering a run for mayor.
The speaker has crisscrossed the city talking to communities about hospital closings, universal pre-kindergarten, hunger issues, reforms in the Buildings Department, and the Campaign for Fiscal Equity on behalf of city school kids, all of this is increasing her profile as a mayoral contender in 2009. "There is no question in my mind that someone who is as competent as her and has the leadership skills she has shown should run for higher office," said Councilman Simcha Felder (D-Brooklyn).

But Quinn insists "You can't have good policy if you don't go visit all parts of the city," Quinn (D-Manhattan) said, insisting there's no politics involved in her effort to reach all corners of the Big Apple.
Maura Keaney, one of Quinn's top aides, pointed out that her boss is an organizer who works best by talking directly to those involved. "It's a better learning experience for her than listening to a policy person," she said.