Not entirely true. Many of the other candidates were members of the city council who had legitimate shots at the mayoralty. Also, because of a recent change in the city charter, this was the first time that the term would be four years rather than two; that especially attracted candidates. The race was not conceived of as Democrats vs. Republicans.
Because ego and vanity.
and plain old stupidity
Not entirely true. Many of the other candidates were members of the city council who had legitimate shots at the mayoralty. Also, because of a recent change in the city charter, this was the first time that the term would be four years rather than two; that especially attracted candidates. The race was not conceived of as Democrats vs. Republicans.