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Mayoral candidate Wander sold Pittsburgh home, currently in Israel

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Pittsburghers haven't elected a Republican mayor since the Great Depression -- and this year's candidate has sold his house, and is campaigning in absentia from Israel, where he works as a private security consultant.

Josh Wander, 42, told Channel 11's news exchange partners at TribLIVE that he plans to return for four debates next month with Democrat Bill Peduto, a city councilman who is an overwhelming favorite to win the mayor's race, and the Nov. 5 general election.

Wander's home was sold Sept. 4, but he said he's maintained the city residency needed to run for mayor by renting another home. Even if that's not the case, Allegheny County Elections Director Mark Wolosik said it's too late to legally challenge Wander's spot on the ballot, though someone could challenge his qualifications to hold office if he's elected.