ALSO READ: The Four Most Affordable and Beautiful State Parks in MNWho Is Running for Rochester, MN MayorAxe for Mayor Axe for MayorAxe (Abdimajid) Ahmed(pronunciation: ax ab-dee-ma-jeed ah-med)How long they've been in Rochester -Rochester native, graduated from John Marshall High School. Why they're running for Mayor -"I'm running for mayor because residents should see the whole picture, not just the ribbon-cuttings. Wale for Rochester Wale for RochesterWalé Elegbede(pronunciation: wa-lay e-leg-bed-day)How long they've been in Rochester -He's lived in Rochester for over a decade. Why they're running for Mayor -"Dr. Walé Elegbede is running for Mayor because he believes Rochester deserves leadership that listens to residents, solves problems, tells the truth, and brings people together." Why they're running for Mayor -"Rochester is at a crossroads.