Former Rep. Barbara Lee, a veteran of Congress and champion of progressive politics in the East Bay, has formed a campaign finance committee in a move that signals a possible run for mayor of Oakland.

Former U.S. representative Barbara Lee on Monday filed paperwork with the city of Oakland, a sign that she may be planning a run for the mayor's office.

After weeks of speculation, the retiring congresswoman sent the strongest signal yet that she’s interested in the job.

Barbara Lee, who represented the East Bay in the House for more than two decades, opened a campaign account Monday to run for mayor of Oakland in April’s special election. “The congresswoman will be making an announcement about her decision later this week,