Late last week, the Black Economic Alliance PAC, BEA—a self-described “nonpartisan coalition of Black business leaders and allies supporting candidates who advance Black economic progress”—announced its support for Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin’s reelection.
The Black Economic Alliance’s backing adds to a growing list of key endorsements for Woodfin ahead of the August 26 municipal elections. In addition to the BEA, the Southern Poverty Law Center Action Fund and former Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg have also thrown their support behind Woodfin’s reelection campaign.
Samantha Tweedy, CEO of the Black Economic Alliance, spoke highly of the mayor in an official statement announcing the PAC’s endorsement.
“Mayor Woodfin is exactly the kind of bold, visionary leader Birmingham needs. Mayors are on the frontlines of expanding economic opportunity and Mayor Woodfin’s investments in innovative solutions will expand Black work, wages, and wealth – and grow Birmingham’s economy for all,” Tweedy said. “Mayor Woodfin’s bold and visionary commitments to increasing youth employment, growing small Black-owned businesses, and championing inclusive development will continue to create lasting economic change and transform communities across Birmingham.”
In explaining the rationale behind its endorsement, the organization highlighted the economic growth that Birmingham has already experienced under Woodfin’s leadership.
“Under Mayor Woodfin’s leadership unemployment in Birmingham has fallen by 31 percent, and more than 16,000 jobs were created in 2023 alone,” the organization stated. “The Mayor’s BOLD program generated $11.6 million in inclusive investments that will drive equitable development across all 99 neighborhoods in Birmingham. Mayor Woodfin has outlined an economic agenda focused on expanding affordable housing, supporting local small businesses, and fostering a more inclusive economy. These efforts, in line with BEA’s Policy Agenda to Advance Black Work, Wages, and Wealth, will help more Black families in Birmingham build lasting wealth and grow the entire economy.”
In accepting the BEA’s endorsement, Woodfin pledged to continue uplifting Black voices in his role as mayor if reelected to a third term in office.
“I’m honored to receive the endorsement of the Black Economic Alliance PAC, which is supporting Black economic policy platforms in cities across the country,” said Woodfin. “As mayor, I will continue to secure investments, expand access to good-paying jobs, and build an economy that works for everyone. With BEA PAC’s endorsement, we can advance a vision where Black voices are not only heard, but are shaping the policies, priorities, and leadership needed to move our communities forward.”
Woodfin is one of nine candidates vying to be Birmingham’s next mayor going into next Tuesday’s election. Among Woodfin’s opponents are State Representative Juandalynn Givan, D-House District 60; Jefferson County Commissioner Lashunda Scales; pastor and non-profit executive Frank Woodson; and longtime local activists Kamau “Marlon” Afrika and David Russell. Political newcomers Brian K. Rice, Jerimy Littlepage and Marilyn James-Johnson are also on the ballot.
