Newton Mayor Setti Warren Confirms Re-Election Bid, 'Excited' About Race

Mayor Setti Warren is ready for another four years in Newton.

Speaking to reporters in Wednesday afternoon, Warren confirmed that he plans to run for a second term as mayor of Newton.

"I am really proud of what we've been able to accomplish in such a short period of time and I look forward to leading this community and working with this community to do more," Warren said. 

Warren said he will make a formal announcement about his re-election bid at a fundraiser in September.

News surfaced early Wednesday morning that Warren was planning to run for a second term after .  

"I love being mayor of my hometown," Warren said. "I'm really excited about running again." 

The announcement about Warren's re-election bid comes less than a year  

Despite his former candidacy for higher office, Warren reassured residents of his "passion" for the Newton community and, if elected, he is committing to a full four years.

"The citizens should know my passion for this community and the importance that I place on being mayor, the honor it is to serve as mayor, and how excited I am to do it for another four years," Warren said. 

Warren, a Democrat, was first elected in 2009, after defeating fellow Democrat State Rep. Ruth Balser by less than 500 votes. 

Since he was elected in 2009, Warren said he has focused on straightening out the city's finances and improving accountability and performance management. He also said he has worked on encouraging economic development in the city and improving the quality of life for Newton's residents. 

Warren also touted  and his work to address Newton's infrastructure needs.

Nevertheless, Warren said there is more to be done. 

"I certainly believe that for Newton to be at its full potential we have some more work to do," Warren said. 

This fall, Warren is expected to present a plan that to further address those capital needs, including reconstruction of and .