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On Tuesday, the Black Political Caucus announced its endorsements for contested races in city government.

You can see the caucus’ picks below. (All quotes and info were taken from the candidates’ campaign pages.) 

Mayor: 
Vi Alexander Lyles: “Charlotte grows every day, but what is growth without stability? People need to have a house and a community to call home.”

• Areas of focus:
  • workforce development
  • transportation infrastructure
  • community safety

City Council, At-Large:
Lawana Slack-Mayfield: “I believe my diverse experience has also taught me the value of listening to the concerns of the public and connecting those concerns with resources.”

• Areas of focus: 
  • stable property values
  • smart economic growth
  • strong community safety

Braxton David Winston II: “I continue to believe it is this generation of Charlotteans who will craft & execute the plan to make the Queen City the equitable, accessible and interconnected city that we each deserve to eat, work & play in.”

• Areas of focus
  • equity
  • access
  • interconnection

Dimple Ajmera: “It’s not what we say, but it’s really what we do that matters. I am very principled and always vote my values.”

• Areas of focus
  • public safety
  • sustainable infrastructure
  • affordable housing
  • economic development

James (Smuggie) Mitchell: “Our (primary) victory could not have been made possible without you. We look forward to receiving your support to serve Charlotte.

• Areas of focus
  • affordable housing
  • economic development
  • public safety

City Council, District 2:
Malcolm Graham: “As a current member of the Charlotte City Council, these are the issues I’ve prioritized to make sure I’m making good on my promise to make Charlotte a great place to live, work, and play.”

• Areas of focus:
  • community development/revitalization
  • public safety and police reform
  • affordable housing
  • racism and racial justice

City Council, District 3:
Victoria Watlington:  “I’ve advocated for the expansion of the Staying in Place program. I’ve worked to secure over $400K in City investment for the land trust. As the Housing Committee Chair, I support policy to end Source of Income Discrimination in City-supported housing.

• Areas of focus 
  • community-led planning
  • affordable housing
  • transportation
  • economic mobility

City Council, District 6:
Stephanie Hand: “Charlotte is one of the fastest growing cities in America. It is important for our communities to have a public servant who will work in partnership with you and be a voice for the residents of District 6.”

• Areas of focus
  • economic development
  • public safety
  • affordable housing
  • infrastructure

Early voting will take place July 7-23; general voting will take place on July 26.

What does Glenn think? Never have I voted for a candidate because he/she got a particular endorsement — and neither should you. Vote for the candidate you like, but most important, VOTE! 

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