DULUTH, Minn. —  Duluth residents appear to have another choice in the upcoming mayoral race — if they're willing to vote for a 30-year-old blue felt puppet.

Mr. Nice is the creation of brothers Jim and Allen Richardson, who wrote a commentary book called "Gonzo Science."

The puppet will hold a campaign rally Saturday at Washington Galleries in Duluth.

The Richardsons say they decided to enter Mr. Nice in the race even though they aren't thrilled about participating in the arena of "politics as usual."

The event will feature a puppet debate along with an art show. And, Jim Richardson says, Mr. Nice will give "the speech of his life."

The human candidates in Duluth's mayoral race are City Councilor Don Ness and Charlie Bell, who was the runner-up in the mayor's race four years ago.