You Sure You Want to Do That?

I can understand why some people might not want to work as a Journalist any longer.

We people yelling “fake news” and companies cutting budgets to almost nothing, it is certainly not the awesome profession that it once was.

But, why anyone would want to quit TV news to go into politics is completely lost on me.

Long-time KWCH (Wichita) News anchor, Lily Wu, has announced her departure from the news industry to pursue a potential run for mayor in Wichita, Kansas. After 30 years of calling Wichita home, Wu expressed her gratitude to the KWCH 12 News family for giving her the opportunity to tell the stories of Kansans for the past 12 years.

Wu believes that stepping down from her on-camera personality role will remove any perceived conflict of interest and allow her to consider a leadership role with the City of Wichita. This move is critical for safeguarding the trust the community has in her and everyone reporting the news at KWCH.

“This will give me the time, energy and attention to explore a possible run for mayor,” Wu said. “I’m humbled by how Wichita has embraced me and my family since immigrating here 30 years ago. I’m excited to continue listening to our community and look forward to making a decision in the coming weeks.”

Although Wu has not yet officially filed for the 2023 mayoral race, she will join a list of potential candidates, including Tom Kane, Anthony Gallardo, Julie Rose Stroud, and Celeste Racette. Racette, the founder of Save Century II, has already filed with the Sedgwick County Election Office, while Councilmember Bryan Frye announced his run for office on Feb. 17. The incumbent mayor, Brandon Whipple, has yet to announce his run for re-election.