Jaylen Smith was elected the mayor of Earle, Arkansas, on Tuesday night, Dec. 6, becoming the youngest Black mayor in the United States.
Jaylen Smith has become the youngest Black mayor in the United States after being elected in a runoff election. Smith, 18, defeated Nemi Matthews Sr. in a runoff election to emerge the mayor of Earle, Arkansas.
Smith had 218 votes, compared to Matthews’ 139, according to election results.
‘Citizens of Earle, Arkansas, it’s official!! I am your newly elected Mayor of Earle, Arkansas… ‘It’s Time to Build a Better Chapter of Earle, Arkansas,’ Smith announced his win in a Facebook post.
‘I would like to thank all my supporters for stepping up getting people to the polls. I am truly grateful for you all.’
Smith said he decided to run for mayor at the start of his senior year, with the encouragement of his fellow student government association members. He said he fully understands the historic significance of his win.
‘It feels awesome. Generations and generations of people will read about this historical moment,’ he said.
Now, as mayor-elect, Smith said he plans to focus on transportation, public safety and bringing a major grocery store to the city. Increasing residents’ access to food sources is a cause Smith said he’s especially passionate about.
