CL’s endorsements for the city’s next leaders

Given the problems Atlanta faces over the next few years — budget shortages, infrastructure woes, crushing traffic, rampant violence — you’d have thought voters would be more energized about the Nov. 3 election, now less than three weeks away. Well, maybe they’re saving their enthusiasm for the Dec. 1 runoffs

But here at CL, we’re totally stoked about city elections! Which is why we invited a dozen candidates to tell us why they would make the best pick in their chosen race. We considered the candidates’ backgrounds — experience, professional accomplishments, political track record — as well as less objective factors. Is a particular candidate adept at building consensus, a natural problem-solver, an innovative thinker?

In sitting down with candidates for face-to-face interviews, we gained insight into their strengths and weaknesses. Those discussions, coupled with our years of following many of the candidates’ successes and failures, helped us make a call on which politicians are best equipped for the job.

And so we offer you our endorsements in the race for mayor, City Council president, and the two citywide Council seats in which the incumbent isn’t seeking reelection. These men — and one woman — have the expertise and vision needed to help save Atlanta from itself.