The number of candidates seeking to become Mobile’s next mayor dropped by two this week, as former Public Safety Director Lawrence Battiste and former City Councilman Jermaine Burrell exited the race and endorsed State Representative Barbara Drummond (D-District 103).

“This campaign is about bringing Mobile together, every small business, and making sure no one is left behind,” said Drummond of the news.

According to Fox News 10, Battiste said Drummond is best equipped to move the city forward. While issuing his support, Burrell cited her experience and commitment to ensuring every child in Mobile has the same opportunities he had growing up.

Drummond called the endorsements a “seismic shift” in her campaign.

RELATED: Democrat state lawmaker Barbara Drummond announces bid for Mayor of Mobile

She now faces three remaining candidates in the upcoming municipal election: Mobile County Commissioner Connie Hudson; former police chief Paul Prine, who the City Council fired after a public dispute with Mayor Sandy Stimpson; and former judge Spiro Cheriogotis, who is backed by Mayor Stimpson, who is not seeking re-election.

The deadline for entering municipal races in Alabama was June 24.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].