What You Need To Know:
Mediator, arbitrator and former Fulton County magistrate judge, Bianca Motley Broom, 42, became College Park, Georgia’s mayor on Monday. In a December runoff, Broom defeated six-term mayor Jack Longino where there was only a 15.5% voter turnout (1,474 ballots cast).
In College Park’s nearly 130-year history, Broom is the first woman and the first African American person to become mayor. At her swearing-in, she told the crowd she wants to build “the community we deserve.” She plans to make that happen through transparency — adding, “we have nothing to hide” — and increasing civic engagement.
Congratulations, Mayor Bianca Motley Broom!
Why You Need To Know:
As we are seeing more women and African American elected officials in this country, we know that real political change happens at the local level. We must continue to stay vigilant about making sure it reflects on a national level. Looking at the current democratic presidential race the lack of diversity is polarizing. We must keep our eyes on the prize and exercise our power by voting. We can continue to make a difference.
