Is Ed Rendell in Ken Trujillo’s Corner?

As the mayoral declaring process works itself out this week, one interesting development: Former Mayor Ed Rendell has hosted a networking event for former City Solicitor Ken Trujillo, one of the growing scrum of candidates for the Democratic nomination.

PoliticsPA reports Rendell on Wednesday hosted a “networking and fundraising” lunch for Trujillo, who served as solicitor under Mayor John Street.

Though Rendell has not formally endorsed Trujillo in his campaign, he referenced Trujillo in the invitation, saying that “of the entire field, the most intriguing person is someone who is not very well-known, particularly by our business community.” He followed up by adding that Trujillo was “very well-qualified” and would be “an extraordinary mayor.”

Lynne Abraham and Terry Gillen are the other declared candidates; Anthony Hardy Williams is expected to declare this afternoon, and Doug Oliver said Tuesday he has formed an exploratory committee for the office.