NATCHEZ — A new mayoral candidate has stepped up to the plate.

Charles “Chick” Graning will be running against Mayor Phillip West.

Graning could not be reached for comment Monday.

Friday is the last day to sign up for candidacy.

Also running for mayor, though not officially qualified, is Aldermen Jake Middleton, who has announced his candidacy.

Current Alderwoman Joyce Arceneaux-Mathis is running for re-election for Ward 1. Running against her are Jim Sanders, Sonya Anderson-Mars and Paul K. Johnson.

Incumbent James “Ricky” Gray is running for Ward 2 as are Johnny Franklin and Larry E. Hooper Jr.

Aldermen “Bob” Pollard is running for re-election in Ward 3. His opponent is Gwen Ball.

Ward 4 has three contenders, current Aldermen Theodore “Bubber” West, Donnell Newsome and Ernest “Tony” Fields.

Mark Fortenbery is running unopposed for Ward 5. Aldermen David Massey currently holds the position.

Forrest Foster and Daniel “Dan” Dillard are competing for Ward 6. Middleton currently holds the position.

The first primary is May 6, the second primary is May 20 and general election is June 3.