ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Rochester City Councilmember Malik Evans announced his entry in the race for Rochester mayor Monday, challenging incumbent Mayor Lovely Warren.

“I did not make this decision lightly,” Evans said in a statement sent out Monday evening. “I have a lifelong love for, belief in, and sense of duty to Rochester, and I have been humbled and honored by the many citizens that have encouraged me to enter the Mayor’s race. Over the coming weeks and months, I look forward to engaging with the residents of our community to hear their desires for creating a stronger Rochester that will not just survive but thrive.”

The Friends of Lovely Warren released a response Monday evening. It reads:

“We’ve prepared for this moment.  All over the country unfortunately it’s been our brothers that have been first in line to take on sisters.  The powers that be playbook hasn’t changed since the days of slavery.  We know our ancestors are looking down upon us and asking…when will our people learn.

The Warren Campaign is committed to breaking these generational curses.  We will run on our record of service and our record of results

We’re confident that He who delivered us two victories before will deliver us another victory.”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.