BUFFALO, NY- Buffalo's Juneteenth festival is the third largest in the country. It's also no stranger to political campaigning. That's why its no surprise Mayor Byron Brown and Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes chose it as the back drop for this announcement.

"This is Tish James and she's running for Attorney General. It's my pleasure to support her it's my pleasure to introduce her to as many voters as possible in the city of Buffalo while we celebrate our heritage and our culture," said Peoples-Stokes, D-Buffalo.

“I believe as mayor of the City of Buffalo that she will make a great attorney general for the state of New York, and as Mayor of the City of Buffalo I am proud to Tish James for New York State attorney general," said Mayor Byron Brown.

James is just one of several Democrats looking to fill the seat vacated by Eric Schneiderman after he stepped down amid allegations of sexual assault and abuse. Some of her challengers could include former U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara, Congresswoman Kathleen Rice, Zephyr Teachout and Republican Manny Alicandro.

James hopes her experience as a public defender, an assistant to the attorney general and a city council member in Brooklyn will separate her from the pack.

"It's really critically important that I've got the vast amount of experience to serve as the next attorney general of the state of New York and last but not least to represent and defend the rights of individuals particularly marginalized and underrepresented individuals particularly at a time when our rights are being challenged," said Letitia James.

The primary election is in September.