Birmingham, Alabama mayoral candidate interview: Randy Davis
ByJHDaniel
Reading time: 3 minutes
Although the Jefferson County Election Commission has until June 23 to officially call the upcoming Birmingham municipal election set for August 22, potential candidates are eager to start spreading their messages.
I’ve been reaching out to those potential candidates with questions I think Birmingham residents would like to ask them. Each potential candidate was emailed the same questions, and I’m meeting with each of them in person.
The first interview I’d like to share is with Randy Davis, a Birmingham native with a background in law enforcement.
Even though these interested individuals can’t officially qualify as a mayoral candidate until the legal notice of election is published, that doesn’t mean that they can’t start sharing their views with voters.
After the election has been called and the legal notice has been published, all potential candidates still have a bit of work to complete. They must each qualify in the Judge of Probate Office of Jefferson County. Each potential candidate must pay a $300 fee and provide a statement of their candidacy to the judge. They must also meet the age and residency requirements to run.
Until then, there’s no harm in engaging the ones who have already shown an interest in the position. It’s never too soon to talk politics in Birmingham, especially with such an integral election coming up right around the corner.
Without further adieu, here’s an introduction to Randy Davis, one person interested in becoming Birmingham’s next mayor:
When did you officially announce your candidacy and where/how did you do it?
With family and friends, lots of friends, about two months ago at a barbecue at my mom’s home.
What is the name of your principle campaign committee?
Birmingham We Are One
Why do you want to run for mayor of Birmingham?
Birmingham has always been my home. I believe in the Magic City . We have always been touted as a city with potential, and I believe I can help the city progress toward that potential.
What is your background, education and experience?
I studied criminal justice at Alabama A&M University and at Northwest-Shoals Community College. I also studied political science at UAB. I’ve been to vast community meetings as an officer with the Birmingham Police Department and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
What are the top three issues Birmingham is facing as a community, and how do you intend to address them?
The revenue of the city. The revitalization of communities and crime. Also, ensuring better relations between law enforcement and communities. I know the citizens, and it starts with community progression.
How will you foster a healthy, working relationship between the mayor’s office and the Birmingham City Council/City hall?
By being a leader who can lead. Making decisions in which I take responsibility for all decisions, as well as being an approachable leader with an open mind for all ideas that will better the city.
How will you accomplish transparency with the residents of Birmingham, if elected?
By staying in constant communication. By visiting communities and through newspaper, radio and social media. Making sure the residents feel comfortable and equally represented.
How do you intend to lower Birmingham’s crime rate?
Starting with the community and working closely with them and implementing new strategies with law enforcement. I have 21 years of law enforcement experience that I feel will be an asset—combining it with other law enforcement officials.
Next up this week are interviews with Randall Woodfin and E. Philemon Hill II.
