Historic Election Win Makes Local History
On Tuesday, Henderson voters elected Melissa Elliott as their next mayor by a margin of 344 votes. This marks the first time a woman and African American will lead the city of roughly 15,000 in Vance County, North Carolina.
“I’m elated…overwhelmed with joy,” Elliott told local station WIZS News. She thanked her opponent Greg Etheridge for a “high-spirited campaign” and the voters for their support.
As a self-described “servant leader,” Elliott looks forward to serving all community members and shaping the city’s future. Etheridge said he was disappointed but respects voters’ choice. His vision remains alive, albeit now in “a little different” form.
Connector Aims to Highlight City’s Potential
Elliott has witnessed Henderson’s struggles with crime and safety issues firsthand. However, as mayor she wants to showcase the abundant good she sees in Henderson.
“This is not about Melissa. But it’s about a community,” Elliott told ABC11. “I think my job is to be the connector, right? And to sell our city to developers.”
After living locally for 18 years, Elliott believes her diverse background makes her an ideal representative to spur new growth. She stands “on the shoulders” of loved ones who instilled public service values.
Lineage of Support Empowers Historic Role
Elliott will be sworn in within weeks, solidifying her barrier-breaking post. She expressed deep gratitude to her mother and grandmothers for pouring into her life to make this moment possible.
The new mayor also thanked the late Rev. William Clayton and many others who provided long-term encouragement. Without this extensive support, Elliott said her groundbreaking election would not have happened.
Now she prepares to pay that investment forward during her tenure leading Henderson into the future.
