Jennifer Gale
Austin fire officials say a body found just north of the University of Texas campus Wednesday morning is that of perennial Austin mayoral candidate and former Dallas mayoral candidate Jennifer Gale.
Gale, 47, is a transgendered homeless former Marine who has run unsuccessfully for numerous public offices in Austin and Dallas.
The body was found in front of the First English Lutheran Church in the 3000 block of Whitis Avenue where Gale was staying, and officials told KVUE News they feel certain the body belongs to Gale.
Austin police say the medical examiner's office has not yet identified the body.
Fire officials say a crew responded to a 9-1-1 call and found the body. The crew performed CPR for at least 30 minutes, but they never felt a pulse.
Gale has gained fame in Austin by repeatedly running for multiple offices, including mayor, city council, governor and Congress. Gale is also known for attending municipal hearings where she has presented arguments in song. Gale had planned to run for Austin mayor in 2009.
Gale ran for Dallas Mayor in 2007, but garnered just 554 votes, .78 percent of those cast.
Former Austin Mayor Bruce Todd released the following statement on news of Gale's death:
"Jennifer was a constant presence at various public hearings, forums and meetings in Austin and displayed a great love for and interest in our city. Her well-known catchphrase was Keep Austin, Austin. While Jennifer no longer is here to physically trumpet that slogan, her personification of that expression will never be forgotten."
