Like most of his incumbent colleagues on the Atlanta City Council, who are facing token or no opposition for their seats, Aaron Watson was looking forward to an easy return to his at-large seat.
It’s been so long since an incumbent lost a re-election bid that few people can even remember the last time it happened.
Then Mary Norwood showed up.
Norwood who held the Post 2 at-large seat before Watson, gave it up in 2009 to run unsuccessfully for mayor. She served two terms on the council, beginning in 2002.
Watson joined the council after an eight-year stretch on the Atlanta Board of Education. He has aligned himself politically with Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, who has endorsed his campaign.
Now the race has turned into one of the most contested battles of the Nov. 5 election, pitting an incumbent one-term councilmember against a former councilmember with a knack for rallying voters.
Here is a look at both candidates.
AARON WATSON
Current Position: Incumbent Post 2 at-large member of the Atlanta City Council.
Age: 57.
Education: Bachelor of business administration from Notre Dame; law degree from Duke University.
Place of birth: South Bend, Indiana.
Residence: Morningside.
Occupation: Attorney.
Family: Married for 35 years to Sandra Watson; three adult children.
Political history: Atlanta City Council 2010-present; Atlanta Board of Education 1994-2001.
First thing to tackle at City Hall once back in office: The purchase of approximately $250 million in bonds to repair crumbling bridges, worn roads, broken sidewalks and other infrastructure needs.
Three reasons Watson says he should be re-elected:
— to continue to put safety first and ensure that the Atlanta Police Department stays fully funded at 2,000 officers.
— to push for policies and investments that make Atlanta “greener and cleaner.” That would include more park space that is well maintained, stronger neighborhood code enforcement and encouraging driving alternatives, like more bicycle lanes.
— to advocate for economic development, building on the city’s success in bringing PulteGroup, Porsche North America and ExactTarget to Atlanta.
Three reasons why Watson believes Norwood is not right for the office:
Watson said he believes the person sitting in his seat must be a strategic thinker and big-picture policy maker; have financial expertise and communications skills; and have political courage — qualities that he doesn’t think Norwood has.
“The question for the voters in this race is not who is unfit but who is the best fit for the times and the issues we face. I believe I am the best choice for those who want effective, intelligent problem solving. Creative solutions do not always make headlines but they do advance the interests of efficient government services that incorporate both economic development and social justice—and those are merits that will continue to make our city an attractive, safe and joyful place for all who live and work here.”
Key endorsements: Mayor Kasim Reed; Congressman John Lewis; former Gov. Roy Barnes; former Atlanta mayors Sam Massell and Andy Young
Cash on hand: Cash on hand: $80,000 approximately
MARY NORWOOD
Current Position: Candidate Post 2 at-large Atlanta City Council.
Age: 61
Education: After a two-year stint at Sweet Briar College in Virginia, she transferred to Emory University, where she graduated with a degree in history.
Place of birth: Augusta
Residence: Buckhead
Occupation: Business owner
Family: Married to retired pediatrician Felton Norwood. Two adult children.
Political history: Atlanta City Council in the Post 2 at Large seat between 2001-2009. Left office to run for mayor in 2009, losing by 714 votes.
First thing to tackle at City Hall once elected: Public Safety
Three reasons Norwood says she should be elected:
— to be an “independent voice” for all Atlantans. She said she has a keen understanding of the workings of the Atlanta City Council from eight years of service.
— has the time, energy, commitment and dedication to be a full-time, responsive councilmember.
— has an in-depth understanding of all communities in the city and a proven track record of serving them.
Three reasons why Norwood believes Watson is not right for the office: Aside from her experience on the council, where she was known for her preparation, Norwood said Watson has made several missteps while in office.
“His actions while serving on the Pension Board. His support of big box development over the objections of surrounding neighborhoods. And he hasn’t demonstrated commitment to the job as demonstrated by his lack attendance at meetings, his lack of participation in city council deliberations; and his lack of presence in communities all across the city.”
Key Endorsements:
Retired Judge and former City Council President Marvin Arrington; Atlanta Police IBPO 623; Atlanta Firefighters IAFF Local 134; Atlanta PACE Union and Buckhead View.
Cash on hand: $70,944.74
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution got the information for this chart from following the campaigns, reviewing past statements the candidates have made and through interviews.
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