PORTLAND, Maine (AP)   Portland’s incumbent mayor has launched his re-election campaign.

The Portland Press Herald reports Democratic Mayor Ethan Strimling made his announcement Wednesday evening at a rally at an elementary school.

In his speech, Strimling recalled that President Donald Trump a few months ago considered releasing immigrants from the southern border to so-called sanctuary cities like Portland “because we are welcoming.” Strimling said he responded, “‘We’ll take them.”’ About 100 asylum seekers have arrived in Portland since Sunday.

Strimling pointed out that Maine is a predominantly white state with an aging population, and that young immigrants are desperately needed in places such as Portland.

Strimling faces challenges from three Portland city councilors in November: Justin Costa, Spencer Thibodeau and Belinda Ray. Former School Board member Kate Snyder is also running for mayor.

Strimling’s been mayor since 2015.