Decatur’s Election Brings Change with New Leadership
Tuesday’s election in Decatur was anticipated as a pivotal moment for the city. Kent Lawrence, a soft-spoken businessman without much political experience, emerged as the new mayor, defeating longtime councilman Billy Jackson by a margin of 54% to 43%.
“It’s incredibly exciting and humbling,” Lawrence shared with reporters right after declaring his victory. “I want to listen and bring everyone together. That’s what our city really needs.”
The city has faced significant divisions in recent years, especially following the controversial death of Steve Perkins at the hands of Decatur Police Officer Mac Bailey Marquette in September 2023. Reports indicated that Perkins was ambushed in his yard during a police operation. Footage of the incident and misleading police statements circulating on social media incited widespread outrage in the community.
Since then, protests have largely ceased, and the city has taken various steps to address the rifts highlighted by that tragic event. Notably, former Mayor Bowling decided against seeking re-election amid public scrutiny, following the resignation of the former police chief.
Amid this backdrop, many expected the 2025 election to reflect some significant changes. Jackson, recognized as Decatur’s first Black mayor and a longstanding figure, was considered a likely contender, with Perkins’ brother, Nicholas Perkins, running for his council seat alongside other prominent civil rights activists.
But the anticipated shift didn’t fully materialize.
Instead, the city’s influential figures rallied behind Lawrence—a candidate who, while lacking some charisma, offered a sense of reliability. With years of experience as a business owner and service on the planning committee, Lawrence seemed safe and unthreatening, rather than revolutionary.
Financial backing poured in, including support from a top political consulting firm in the state. Ultimately, Lawrence emerged victorious.
However, sentiment among the activists didn’t translate directly to the voting outcome. Nicholas Perkins may not have won, but his opponent, Terrance Adkins, a well-known civil rights activist, secured a position as the new District 1 councilor. Adkins was a co-founder of an activist group and played a central role during the two years of protests in the city.
Additionally, Sarah French, competing against Pam Westler for the District 4 seat, is another activist who was instrumental in the protests surrounding Perkins’ death. She garnered 47% of the vote among five candidates but ultimately did not win. The French and Westler race will face a runoff in October.
Regardless of the outcome, the winner will replace Hunter Pepper, a retired councilor often criticized for his negativity and chaotic presence, particularly in the aftermath of Perkins’ shooting. His frequent absences last year had left the district without proper representation.
