Former Sonic James Donaldson has formed an exploratory committee to run against Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels. Donaldson's political consultant, Blair Butterworth, says Donaldson will likely decide in the next month whether to enter the race.

Former City Councilmember Peter Steinbrueck said he has been persuaded to consider a run against Nickels, as well, although he hasn't formed a committee.

Steinbrueck said he had nothing to do with the creation of a Facebook page called, "Peter Steinbrueck, for the love of Seattle, RUN FOR MAYOR!", but he responded to its creator, Susanna Williams, to ask its members (more than 400) to write in and tell him what changes they would like to see in Seattle.

Local political blogs were buzzing over the weekend that Steinbrueck's response showed he is giving a run serious consideration. In a phone interview today, Steinbrueck said he is considering it, but "I've certainly not made a decision one way or another," he said.