Cherelle Parker Elected as Philadelphia’s First Female Mayor
In a historic victory, Cherelle Parker, a Democrat with a long history in state and local politics, has been elected as Philadelphia’s 100th mayor. This win makes her the first woman to hold the post in the city’s history.
Parker, 51, emerged as the frontrunner from a crowded field of Democrats in the May primary and was heavily favored over Republican David Oh in the Democratic stronghold of Philadelphia. She will be replacing Democrat Jim Kenney, who was ineligible for reelection due to term limits.
Throughout her campaign, Parker promised to make Philadelphia the “safest, cleanest, greenest big city in the nation that will provide access to economic opportunity for all.” Her platform focused on addressing public safety, quality-of-life issues, and economic opportunities for all residents.
Parker’s extensive experience in state and local government has prepared her to tackle the city’s most pressing problems. She served as a state representative for northwest Philadelphia for 10 years before being elected to the city council in 2015.
In a previous interview, Parker emphasized the need for collaboration between federal, state, and local government, as well as the private sector and philanthropic communities, to address public health and safety issues.
Her moderate message resonated with voters who are increasingly concerned about public safety and quality-of-life issues, such as faulty streetlights, potholes, and trash collection.
On the other side, David Oh, an attorney and at-large city council member, aimed to become the city’s first Asian American mayor. His platform focused on lowering Philadelphia’s crime rate, hiring more police officers, and addressing drug use.
Overall, the election was closely watched as voters weighed various issues, including abortion rights, in an open Pennsylvania Supreme Court seat.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
With her election, Parker has made history and will now focus on leading Philadelphia into the future as its first female mayor.