Hold onto your ballots—this mayoral race is turning into a full-blown showdown.
Fayetteville: Old Guard vs. New Blood
In a dramatic twist, Mayor Mitch Colvin—the longest-serving Black mayor in Fayetteville’s history—has officially filed to run again, reversing his earlier announcement that he wouldn’t seek a fifth term. Why the change of heart? Apparently, there’s “unfinished business” and concern that without his leadership, the progress he helped usher in could backslide under new leadership at the police department, sheriff’s office and city council.
Translation? He’s stepping back in to protect his legacy and the city’s momentum.
Now, Fayetteville’s mayoral race has officially gotten crowded. Here’s the full lineup of candidates:
- Mitch Colvin (Incumbent)
- Kathy Jensen (Current Council Member)
- Mario Benavente (Current Council Member)
- Courtney Banks-McLaughlin (Current Council Member)
- Tisha Waddell (Former Council Member)
- Paul Williams (Former Council Member)
- Freddie de la Cruz (Repeat Candidate)
- John Ashford (Repeat Candidate)
- Clifton Johnson (Repeat Candidate)
- Nahlee Iris Smith (Newcomer)
Some of these names have been eyeing the mayor’s seat for a while now—and with Colvin back in the mix, the stakes just got even higher. Emotions are running high, and while we hope this race stays clean, let’s not pretend it couldn’t get messy.
Spring Lake: Mayor Kia Anthony Faces a Challenger
Over in Spring Lake, the energy is buzzing as well. Mayor Kia Anthony is seeking re-election and will face off against Robyn Chadwick. Anthony, who’s also a local business owner, has had a busy term navigating state financial oversight and trying to restore confidence in local leadership. This race is shaping up to be a critical test of her leadership and Spring Lake’s future direction.
Hope Mills: Steady Leadership or a Shakeup?
Meanwhile, in Hope Mills, Mayor Jessie Bellflowers is being challenged by Todd Henderson. It’s a more low-key race, but still significant. Voters there will have to decide whether to stay the course or embrace new leadership.
What It All Means for Us
Fayetteville is at a crossroads. Do we build on Colvin’s foundation, or take a bold leap with fresh voices and perspectives from current and former council members—or even a newcomer? Spring Lake is looking for steady hands and fiscal trust. Hope Mills is weighing experience against change.
There’s no shortage of personality, passion or political ambition in this year’s races. And while we all want what’s best for our communities, the big question remains:
Who will our community trust to take on the job?
Primary elections are set for October 7, with the general election following on November 4. This election isn’t just one to watch—it’s one to show up for.
Stay tuned. This race is just getting started.