With Mobile’s first open-seat mayoral contest in two decades on the horizon, State Rep. Barbara Drummond (D-District 103) is urging her opponents to take part in two televised debates ahead of the August 26 general election, according to multiple news outlets.
Drummond’s campaign announced plans to work with local television, radio, and digital news outlets to organize and broadcast the debates later this month. The proposed format includes live, independent fact-checking, opening statements, moderated journalist questions, and a public Q&A segment where citizens can raise issues directly.
RELATED: Drummond gains key endorsements as Mobile mayoral field narrows
“Being mayor isn’t about 30-second TV spots bankrolled by outside donors,” Drummond said in an official statement. “It’s about standing on the front line, answering tough questions from people, explaining a clear pathway forward, and leading with proven experience. I’m ready to do that today, and I believe anyone seeking this office should be just as willing.”
“Money can buy ads, but it can’t buy leadership. Mobile’s voters deserve to see each candidate think on their feet, not hide behind talking points.”
“I’ve spent my whole life here, reporting on Mobile’s stories, balancing the city’s books, and writing laws that move Alabama forward,” Drummond continued. “That background gives me an edge when it comes to hard, honest conversations about public safety, economic growth, and neighborhood revitalization. If you’re not ready to have those conversations in front of the people, you’re not ready to be mayor.”
Drummond, who has represented House District 103 since 2014 and previously served in both city and county government, now faces three opponents for the mayor’s seat: Spiro Cheriogotis, a former Mobile County District Judge; Connie Hudson, a current Mobile County Commissioner and former city councilor; and Paul Prine, the city’s former Police Chief.
RELATED: Former Mobile Chief of Police launches campaign to become city’s next mayor
Three earlier candidates—former Public Safety Director Lawrence Battiste, former city councilor Jermaine Burrell, and former Mobile County Commissioner Stephen Nodine—have withdrawn from the race. Both Battiste and Burrell have endorsed Drummond.
According to reporting from WPMI NBC 15, Prine responded favorably to the debate proposal, expressing a willingness to participate and noting that his campaign is already rooted in engaging directly with residents and addressing public safety concerns. Prine also indicated he would be open to debating Drummond one-on-one if the other candidates choose not to participate.
If no candidate receives more than 50 percent of the vote on August 26, a runoff election will be held on September 23.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
