State Representative Barbara Drummond finished first in Tuesday’s mayoral election, advancing to a September 23 runoff against former District Judge Spiro Cheriogotis. Drummond’s grassroots-powered campaign overcame steep financial disadvantages, relying on a broad coalition of working families, young leaders, and longtime residents to outpace heavily funded rivals.
“We can tackle our challenges by bringing people together,” Drummond told supporters. “This campaign has always been about safe neighborhoods, real economic opportunity, and a government accountable to its people.”
Her platform emphasizes public safety, job creation, youth opportunity, and ensuring every neighborhood shares in Mobile’s progress.
Cheriogotis, endorsed by outgoing Mayor Sandy Stimpson, will continue to present himself as an experienced hand for city leadership. But his campaign is also facing scrutiny over a recent advertisement in which he invoked his father’s past, telling voters: “When I was 4, I saw a man try to kill my father. My dad defended himself and ended up in prison.”
Court records and trial transcripts present a different account. In November 1987, Nicholas Cheriogotis pursued a former employee, Allbun Lamar Smith, after a roadside dispute. Witnesses testified that Nicholas parked in a driveway, confronted Smith, and after being cut on the arm with a knife, retrieved a .22-caliber handgun from his vehicle and shot Smith multiple times in the back, killing him.
Two juries convicted Nicholas of manslaughter. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison but served only three before being released on probation. A wrongful death lawsuit filed by Smith’s family resulted in a $2 million judgment, which court records show was never paid following alleged asset transfers and a bankruptcy filing.
The trial judge emphasized that the killing was avoidable, writing: “A senseless death occurred.”
As the runoff approaches, Drummond’s campaign is highlighting her coalition-driven message. “Voters across Mobile have a clear choice,” said Campaign Manager Adline Clarke. “This race is about safe communities, strong neighborhoods, and honest leadership.”
Voters will decide between the two on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, in a contest that could set the course for Mobile’s future leadership.
