Raleigh’s 2024 mayoral race is heating up. Two candidates, Eugene Myrick and Terrance Ruth, are vying to make history. If elected, either would become Raleigh’s first Black mayor since Clarence Lightner in 1975.
The race comes as current Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin steps down. This opens the door for new leadership in North Carolina’s capital city. Five candidates are throwing their hats into the ring for this pivotal election.
A Historic Race with Diverse Candidates
Myrick and Ruth aren’t the only ones seeking the top job. The field includes:
- Janet Cowell (Democrat): Former state treasurer
- Paul Fitts (Republican): Real estate background
- Eugene Myrick (Democrat): Public educator
- Terrance Ruth (Democrat): Public educator
- James Shaughnessy IV (Unaffiliated): Catering background
This diverse group brings a range of experiences to the table. Each candidate offers unique perspectives on Raleigh’s future.
Key Issues Shaping the Campaign
Housing affordability tops the list of concerns for many candidates. Cowell aims to help civil servants live in the city they serve. Fitts proposes repurposing prison land for development.
Public safety is another hot topic. Fitts calls for 400 new police officers. Ruth envisions a broader approach beyond law enforcement.
Education features prominently in several platforms. Myrick advocates for a city education committee. Ruth emphasizes workforce development and graduate retention.
Myrick’s Vision for Raleigh
Eugene Myrick brings an educator’s perspective to his campaign. His platform focuses on:
- Education: Forming a city committee to boost STEM opportunities and student well-being
- Fair wages: Ensuring city workers can afford to live where they work
- Sustainable development: Protecting green spaces and tackling environmental challenges
Myrick aims to create a more inclusive and sustainable Raleigh. His background in education shapes his approach to city leadership.
Ruth’s Plan for the Capital City
Terrance Ruth, also with an education background, offers his own vision:
- Housing: Building units for all income levels
- Education investment: Retaining college graduates and developing the workforce
- Comprehensive public safety: Going beyond traditional law enforcement
Ruth emphasizes collaboration and accessibility in his platform. He seeks to create opportunities for all Raleigh residents.
A New Chapter for Raleigh
The winner will become just the fourth mayor since 2001. They’ll follow in the footsteps of Charles Meeker, Nancy McFarlane, and Mary-Ann Baldwin.
Important dates for voters:
- October 11: Voter registration deadline
- October 17: Early voting and same-day registration begins
- October 29: Absentee ballot request deadline
As election day approaches, Raleigh residents have a historic choice to make. Will they elect the city’s first Black mayor in nearly five decades? Or will another candidate win their trust?
The race promises to be closely watched. Its outcome will shape Raleigh’s future for years to come.
