Public Media from Michigan State University

Councilmember Spitzley Launches Bid For Mayor In Lansing

Lansing City Council member at-large Patricia Spitzley announced her campaign for mayor Wednesday in Wentworth Park.
Scott Pohl

Lansing City Councilmember Patricia Spitzley has formally announced her candidacy in this year’s mayoral election.

The at-large council member launched her campaign today from downtown Lansing.

Spitzley says some of her priorities include the economy and policing. “It’s a good time for someone who believes in fiscal responsibility," she says. "It’s a good time for...a person who is ready to transform our public safety.”

If elected, Spitzley would become Lansing’s first female mayor and the city’s first African-American mayor. “I am a black woman. I’m a proud African-American female. I’m a proud mother and a proud grandmother," Spitzley states, "but I’m also a proud Lansing resident. And so, I believe that I would be a great mayor.”

Along with Spitzley, current Lansing mayor Andy Schor, former mayor Virg Bernero, Farhan Sheikh-Omar, and Larry Hutchinson Jr. are running to be the city’s next leader.

The filing deadline to enter the race is April 20. There will be a primary election on August 3. The general election will be held November 2.

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Scott Pohl is a general assignment news reporter and produces news features and interviews. He is also an alternate local host on NPR's "Morning Edition."