MARK HARRISON / THE SEATTLE TIMES

James Donaldson

James Donaldson, a former Seattle Sonic and owner of a physical therapy clinic in Mill Creek, says he is running for Seattle mayor.

Donaldson will make his official announcement tomorrow, he said, and expects to send out a news release this afternoon.

In political circles, Donaldson has been accused of being wishy washy.

He filed first for City Council, then went back and forth for weeks over his decision to run for mayor. That's made it difficult for him to raise money and tough to get solid support.

He even had to switch political consultants midstream because his original consultant, Christian Sinderman, does work for Mayor Greg Nickels.

Today Donaldson said that was all part of his plan.

"It's all been focused and certainty, and it's all been strategically planned by my campaign team," he said. His announcement will "help folks decide," he said: "People can see that I'm committed and I'm serious."

Donaldson joins Michael McGinn, who announced yesterday he is challenging the mayor, and political newcomer Norman Sigler.

Others considering entering the race are Duke Moscrip, who owns the Duke's restaurant chain and former City Councilmember Peter Steinbrueck. Dan Savage, editor of The Stranger, says he will run, but if elected, will resign within 24 hours. He described himself to Dave Ross on KIRO radio as " a safe lunatic to vote for."