Mayor Woodfin’s Victory Speech Following Election
“To the wonderful people of this city, whether you supported me or not, I’m here to work for you,” said Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin at an election watch party on Tuesday night. He expressed his commitment to moving forward together with the community.
Unofficial reports indicated that in 67 out of 68 districts, Woodfin, who was first elected in a controversial 2017 election and re-elected in 2021, garnered nearly 75% of the votes. As he approached the podium, he lightheartedly celebrated, chanting “Three Pete.”
During his speech, Woodfin took the opportunity to share his plans for his upcoming third term.
“We will continue to take illegal firearms off the streets,” he stated. “Investments in the education, mental health, and safety of our kids will persist. We aim to make housing more affordable and public transportation more reliable, ensuring every corner of the city is connected and cared for.”
“Together, we are building a Birmingham that works for everyone. Not just for today, but for future generations too,” Woodfin declared.
This year’s mayoral election in Birmingham was crowded, featuring nine candidates, three of whom are currently holding public office, including Woodfin.
Jefferson County Commissioner Rashunda Scale secured second place with over 4,700 votes. She has been vocal about her opposition to the restructuring of the Birmingham Water Works, which she perceives as an attack on the city.
Approved earlier this year by Governor Kay Ivey, the restructuring received criticism from Scale, who described it as indicative of “Birmingham being under attack.” In discussions surrounding this change, Woodfin redirected complaints towards mayoral candidate D. Birmingham State Assemblyman Judalynn Givan.
Givan, in her eleventh year in the state legislature, placed third in the election, receiving less than 5% of the vote. In a live stream on election day, she acknowledged the election result and expressed gratitude for her campaign experience.
“Regardless of winning or losing, I put forth my best effort, and I’ll hold my head high,” she remarked. “I ran for what I believed was right for me, focusing on hope and pride.”
“I did what I promised. I said I would run for mayor,” Givan added. “If people like the services currently being offered, they should stick with them.”
On the final day of campaigning, local lawyer Eric Gaster, who supported Woodfin, filed a lawsuit against Givan and two others. Givan has publicly contested Gaster’s claims and announced plans for a countersuit.
“Bullying isn’t how you win votes,” Gaster asserted during a post-election live stream. He claimed Givan misrepresented her situation when she stated she could not discuss the ongoing lawsuit.
Other incumbents on the Birmingham ballot also performed well on Tuesday. City Council members Clinton Woods, Crystal Smitherman, and Warden Alexander all achieved victories in their respective races, while Darrell O’Quinn and Hunter Williams faced no opposition.
Current city council member Latonia, along with Tate and JT Moore, fell short of majority votes in their districts, necessitating a runoff election. Moore finished second, narrowly losing to city planning committee member Brian Gunn.
