Mayoral Election Update

State Senator Barbara Drummond secured the top spot in Tuesday’s mayoral election and will face former district judge Spiro Cheriogotis in a runoff scheduled for September 23. Drummond’s campaign, which was heavily grassroots in nature, drew support from workers’ families, young leaders, and long-standing residents, allowing her to successfully contend with financially stronger opponents.

In her remarks to supporters, Drummond emphasized the importance of unity in overcoming challenges. “We can tackle the challenges by bringing people together,” she stated. “The campaign has always been about safe areas, true economic opportunities, and the government taking responsibility for the people.”

Key components of her platform include public safety, job creation, and fostering opportunities for youth, ensuring that all neighborhoods benefit from progress.

Cheriogotis, backed by resigning Mayor Sandy Stimson, positions himself as a seasoned leader for the city. Nevertheless, his campaign is under fire for recent advertisements that reference his father’s controversial past. In one such ad, he reflects, “When I was four, I saw a man trying to kill my father. My father defended himself and went to prison.”

Conflicting accounts can be found in court records regarding the incident. In November 1987, Nicholas Cheriogotis confronted a former employee, Alven Lamar Smith, after a roadside altercation. Witnesses reported that he parked, approached Smith, inflicted a knife wound, then returned to his car to retrieve a .22 caliber handgun, ultimately shooting Smith multiple times and causing his death.

Nicholas was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 15 years in prison, though he spent only three years incarcerated before being released on probation. A wrongful death suit from Smith’s family resulted in a $2 million judgment, but it appears that this amount was never paid after Nicholas filed for bankruptcy and transferred his assets.

The presiding judge remarked that the death was preventable, stating, “a meaningless death occurred.”

As the runoff approaches, Drummond’s campaign continues to emphasize its coalition-driven approach. Campaign manager Adlinglark noted, “Voters across Mobile have clear choices. This race is about safe communities, strong neighborhoods, and honest leadership.”

Voters will make their final decision on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, setting the stage for future leadership in Mobile.