Russell was elected as the sole opposition councillor in Islington at last year’s local elections and is the party’s national spokesperson for local transport.
She’s the third Green to confirm a mayoral bid and will be up against 2008 runner Sian Berry and Tom Chance, the party’s housing spokesperson.
Councillor Caroline Russell said: “If elected as the Green Party’s Mayoral candidate I will promote London as an example to the world of how economic prosperity can go hand in hand with a green revolution that radically improves the quality of the homes we live in, the streets we use and the air we breathe.
“These priorities demand serious innovation – but London is the most innovative city in the world. London has the chance to be at the forefront of a worldwide revolution in green technology and social innovation, and all Londoners will benefit.”
Russell is also hoping to be selected as a candidate in the London Assembly elections which take place on the same day as the Mayoral contest.
Her Assembly bid has been endorsed by incumbent AMs Baroness Jenny Jones and Darren Johnson who are standing down next year after 16 years at City Hall.
Baroness Jones described Russell as “a very effective and hardworking councillor who has a good track record with the voters and with the media” and predicted she would “make a superb Assembly Member, able to hold the next Mayor to account and to introduce green ideas to the whole of London”.
Mr Johnson added: “Caroline Russell has an impressive track record as a campaigner, a proven ability to win elections and invaluable experience as a local councillor, all of which means she will be a huge asset for the Green Party as a London Assembly Member.”
Nominations open today and close on 29th June, registered members will then vote 3rd and 30th August with the result declared on September 2nd.
