News Summary
As the mayoral election in Chattanooga approaches on March 4, 2025, excitement grows among residents. Current Mayor Tim Kelly faces challenger Chris Long, with early voting underway. The candidates focus on pressing issues such as affordable housing and public safety, while their contrasting campaign finances highlight the stakes involved in this pivotal election. With all city council seats also up for grabs, voters are encouraged to engage in shaping Chattanooga’s future.
Chattanooga’s Exciting Mayoral Race Heating Up!
As the city of Chattanooga gears up for its highly anticipated mayoral election on March 4, 2025, residents are buzzing with excitement and curiosity about the candidates vying for the top spot. The race features the current mayor, Tim Kelly, going head-to-head with challenger Chris Long, setting the stage for what promises to be a defining moment for the city.
Early Voting Underway!
Residents of Chattanooga, which boasts a population of 187,030 according to the latest U.S. Census estimate from July 2023, can already make their voices heard through early voting. This crucial phase started on February 12 and will run until February 27, 2025. If you haven’t cast your vote yet, there’s still time!
Meet the Candidates
Tim Kelly has been serving as the mayor since April 2021. Following a tough runoff win against Kim White, he has played a vital role in city leadership. Kelly announced his intention to run for reelection back in September 2023. At 57 years old, Tim has lived in Chattanooga for an impressive 53 years. With degrees from Columbia University and an MBA from Emory University, he brings a wealth of knowledge in business management and nonprofit leadership, positioning himself as a candidate with a unique perspective on the city’s pressing issues.
On the other side of the ring is Chris Long, who at the age of 60, is not new to the political arena. This will mark his third attempt at the mayoral post, having previously run in 2017 and 2021 unsuccessfully. Long, who has lived in Chattanooga for over 30 years, touts his experience in the building industry and as a consultant, claiming to have a firm grasp on government operations. He has raised $2,600 for his campaign, a stark contrast to Kelly’s impressive $96,000.
What Do They Stand For?
Both candidates are focusing on critical issues that resonate with voters, such as affordable housing, public safety, and a responsive government. Kelly, with his business acumen, aims to leverage economic strategies to tackle these challenges. In contrast, Long emphasizes infrastructure and crime and advocates for incorporating trade schools into local education. He identifies himself as a Republican, although the election is officially nonpartisan.
A Closer Look at Campaign Finances
When it comes to funding, the difference in campaign support is quite noticeable. As the incumbent, Kelly has significantly outpaced Long, raising a jaw-dropping $96,000 compared to Long’s $2,600. With the role of mayor also involving pivotal responsibilities, including appointing city department heads and overseeing the executive branch of the city’s government, every dollar counts in this heated race!
The Bigger Picture
The upcoming election will not only decide the future leadership of Chattanooga but will also include all nine city council seats. Some council districts are witnessing greater competition, with multiple challengers vying for votes, while others have incumbents running unopposed.
With early voting already underway and Election Day right around the corner, Chattanoogans are encouraged to engage with the issues and participate in shaping their city’s future. As the race for Chattanooga’s mayor unfolds, both Tim Kelly and Chris Long are gearing up for what promises to be a memorable election season—so stay tuned!
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Additional Resources
- Local3News: Meet the Candidates for Chattanooga Mayor
- Times Free Press: Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly Faces Challenger
- Times Free Press: Ballot Set for Chattanooga’s 2025 City Races
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chattanooga
