20 Independent Mayors Making a Difference in 2024

“I don’t think there’s a Republican or Democratic way to pick up garbage or pave streets. If you care about your community and seek to take care of needs and lead everyone equitably, I think being an independent is the best way to do that.” ~ Toby Barker, Mayor of Hattiesburg, MS

While most eyes are on the 2024 presidential race, there are hundreds of local elected officials who are striving to make a difference. Some are relatively new to public service, while others are seeking re-election so they can continue the good work they’re doing for their communities. 

Join us as we discuss the importance of remaining politically independent and profile 20 independent mayors who are making a difference in 2024.

Does Party Affiliation Matter for Mayors? 

Officially, most local offices are non-partisan. That means the officials placed in these positions don’t necessarily run on the party line. 

However, there is some evidence that party affiliation, even when it’s undeclared, can impact everything from policy focus to fiscal responsibility. A study published by the University of Chicago Press Journals looked at more than 1,000 local elections in mid-sized to large cities over a 60-year period. They found that, despite the stated independence of the office itself, establishment-party-affiliated mayors are impacted by party ideologies when it comes to spending, policy priorities, and political appointments. 

Other insights published in a book called Political Leaders and Changing Local Democracy (2018) found that, while party affiliation provided certain benefits to office holders or candidates, truly independent mayors focused on building a personal brand within the community and were more responsive to local concerns. They also concluded that the more connected a local leader was to their community, the longer their tenure and farther reaching the positive impact on the community as a whole. 

The writers also found that the prevalence of non-partisan mayors was more common in Europe than within the two-party dominance of the American political system. Anecdotal evidence backs this up, as noted in the current party affiliation of mayors in America’s largest 100 cities:

Of the 100 largest cities:

• 63 mayors identify as Democrats

• 26 mayors are Republicans

• 4 mayors identify as independents

• 1 mayor is a Libertarian

The other six are either non-partisan or their party affiliation is unknown.

20 Independent Mayors Making an Impact in 2024

In this guide, we’re highlighting 20 independent mayors in cities and towns across the United States who are putting people over party as they serve their communities.  

Here, in no particular order, are the independent and third-party mayors who are working hard to make a difference in their community, without the partisan strings attached:

#1: Rick Blangiardi, Mayor of Honolulu, Hawaii

City Population: 350,964

Political Affiliation: Independent

In Office Since: January 2021

Current Term Ends: January 2025

Running for Reelection: Yes, in August 2024

Rick Blangiardi, a former TV executive, brought a fresh perspective to Honolulu's City Hall. Being elected in the middle of a pandemic has been a challenge, and helping his community recover has been one of the top priorities of his first term in office. 

Under his leadership, Honolulu has seen a robust response to the COVID-19 pandemic, improvements in homelessness programs, and enhanced infrastructure projects. Blangiardi’s commitment to transparency and accountability has garnered him significant support as he seeks another term.

#2: David Ortega, Mayor of Scottsdale, Arizona

City Population: 258,069

Political Affiliation: Independent

In Office Since: January 2021

Current Term Ends: January 2025

Running for Reelection: Yes, in July 2024

Although previously registered as a Democrat, David Ortega officially switched his affiliation to Independent in 2019. An architect by profession, he has been instrumental in maintaining Scottsdale’s high standards of living while promoting sustainable development. His administration focuses on water conservation, historic preservation, and economic diversification. 

Ortega’s proactive approach to community engagement and urban planning has positioned Scottsdale as a model city in Arizona. Under his leadership, Scottsdale became the first city in Arizona to mandate environmentally responsible building codes. He also passed an anti-discrimination ordinance, lowered property taxes, and promoted development of family-friendly neighborhoods over unfettered commercial development. 

#3: Maria Rivera, Mayor of Central Falls, Rhode Island

City Population: 19,303

Political Affiliation: Independent

In Office Since: January 2021

Current Term Ends: January 2025

Running for Reelection: Yes, in November 2024

Maria Rivera is the first Latina mayor in Rhode Island history and the first woman elected as mayor of Central Falls. Rivera has been endorsed by the Democratic Women’s Caucus but maintains her political independence, preferring to prioritize people over politics. So far, she has been a transformative leader for the city, with a tenure that’s marked by significant investments in education, infrastructure, and public safety. 

Rivera’s administration also prioritizes affordable housing and economic development, making strides in revitalizing the small but vibrant city. She made a goal of creating 300 new affordable housing units, and so far has 200 completed, including 30 new units for women and children facing domestic abuse, immigration issues, or homelessness.

#4: Kevin Burns, Mayor of Geneva, Illinois

City Population: 21,228

Political Affiliation: Independent

In Office Since: 2001

Current Term Ends: 2025

Running for Reelection: Not yet announced

Reelected for his 6th term in 2021, Kevin Burns is the longest-serving mayor in Geneva history. His administrations have been marked by a commitment to innovation and sustainability. Under his chairmanship of the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, an independent group of legislators from the Chicago area, advancements were made in areas as diverse as supporting the aging population, prioritizing diversity and inclusion in government, and combating climate change. 

It’s in this last area that Mayor Burns has made the greatest impact, both as a signatory of the Chicago Climate Charter and in growing the caucus’ Greenest Region Compact into the largest municipal sustainability collaborative in the country. There is no word yet on whether he will seek a 7th term when his current term expires in 2025. 

#5: Emma Mulvaney-Stanak, Mayor of Burlington, Vermont

City Population: 42,899

Political Affiliation: Vermont Progressive Party 

In Office Since: March 2024

Current Term Ends: March 2026

Running for Reelection: No, due to term limits

The latest in a long line of independent politicians in Vermont, Emma Mulvaney-Stanak has quickly made her mark on the city. She’s the first woman and openly LGBTQ+ representative elected as mayor of Burlington, and her administration focuses on social justice, environmental sustainability, and affordable housing. 

Despite being newly elected, Mulvaney-Stanak’s proactive policies and community-oriented initiatives are already shaping Burlington’s future. Some initiatives planned for her first term include appointing a special assistant to focus on tackling crime in the community and a proposal for property taxes to be based on income rather than property value to make them more fair and equitable to residents.  

#6: Ron Nirenberg, Mayor of San Antonio, Texas

City Population: 1,434,625

Political Affiliation: Independent

In Office Since: June 2017

Current Term Ends: June 2025

Running for Reelection: No, due to term limits

Ron Nirenberg leads San Antonio with a vision of sustainable growth and equity. His administration tackled challenges like housing affordability, public health, and climate change. Nirenberg’s commitment to community engagement and his ability to foster bipartisan cooperation have left a lasting impact on the city. 

Some of his initiatives include a housing policy taskforce, the workforce development program SA Ready to Work, and the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. He was awarded the Small Business Advocate Award by the United States Conference of Mayors in 2018 and a place among the Grist 50 for his leadership on climate change mitigation in 2020. Ron Nirenberg is also a member of the Climate Mayors Steering Committee.

#7: Ben Walsh, Mayor of Syracuse, New York

City Population: 142,553

Political Affiliation: Independent

In Office Since: January 2018

Current Term Ends: January 2026

Running for Reelection: No, due to term limits

Ben Walsh, the son of a former congressman, has brought an independent spirit to Syracuse. In fact, he is the first independent elected to the mayor’s office in that city in more than 100 years. His leadership has seen significant advancements in infrastructure, economic development, and public safety. 

Walsh’s focus on innovation and collaboration has driven Syracuse’s transformation into a hub for tech and business growth. He’s also a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, earning Syracuse top scores in the Municipal Equality Index (MEI) for his policies advocating for equality in policy-making, legislation, and city services.  

#8: Frank Picozzi, Mayor of Warwick, Rhode Island

City Population: 81,004

Political Affiliation: Independent

In Office Since: January 2021

Current Term Ends: January 2025

Running for Reelection: Yes, in November 2024

Frank Picozzi never set out to become a politician. It was this reluctance that set him apart from the typical office holder and kept him independent. His pragmatic and transparent approach to governance has earned him widespread support in Warwick. His administration has prioritized fiscal responsibility, infrastructure improvements, and community engagement. Picozzi’s hands-on leadership style and commitment to addressing local concerns have made a tangible difference in the city’s development.

#9: Paulette Guajardo, Mayor of Corpus Christi, Texas

City Population: 327,423

Political Affiliation: Unaffiliated

In Office Since: January 2021

Current Term Ends: January 2025

Running for Reelection: Yes

Paulette Guajardo has emphasized economic development, infrastructure, public health, and public safety since her election as mayor of Corpus Christi. Her leadership has seen the completion of several major projects, including improvements to the city’s water and road systems. Guajardo’s dedication to serving her constituents and fostering a strong community spirit has been evident throughout her time in office.

Signature programs during her tenure include the Saving Our Seniors Homebound health initiative and the Connecting Our Kids program, which aims to bridge the technology gap and promote equal access. 

#10: Patricia Lock Dawson, Mayor of Riverside, California

City Population: 320,764

Political Affiliation: Unaffiliated

In Office Since: December 8, 2020

Current Term Ends: 2028

Running for Re-Election: Not yet announced

Newly reelected to her second term, Patricia Lock Dawson strives to create a community where there is opportunity for all. The result is programs to address everything from mental health and education to homelessness. Her multi-pronged, data-driven approach draws from best practices in cities across the country. 

A three-time appointee to the governor’s Board of Behavioral Sciences, Mayor Lock-Dawson understands the relationship between mental health issues and other problems that plague cities, such as crime, unemployment, and homelessness. 

Her administration takes a collaborative approach to addressing these and other issues that focuses on prevention, intervention, and enforcing the law in an even-handed, compassionate manner. For example, the Initiative to End Youth Homelessness works to connect those who are at-risk with jobs, counseling, and other services. Project Connect works with non-profit organizations to help previously incarcerated individuals reintegrate into the community through job training and housing programs. 

#11: khalid kamau, Mayor of South Fulton, Georgia

City Population: 107,000

Political Affiliation: Working Families Party, Democratic Socialists of America

In Office Since: January 4, 2022

Current Term Ends: 2026

Running for Re-Election: Not yet announced Mayor kamau is one of the original leaders and organizers of Atlanta’s Black Lives Matter chapter, and the first elected to public office. He is focused on developing community leaders and teaching them how to translate activism into public policy. With that in mind, his administration aims to make South Fulton, with a population that is 92% African American, a model of progressive policies that promote economic equity and racial justice. 

Initiatives since taking office include creating a Blighted Property Fund to address the problem of abandoned and neglected homes and buildings, Community Development Block grants to promote local business development, and legislation to increase the minimum wage to $15 an hour. His passion for grassroots activism and teaching constituents how state and local governments work led to creation of an annual event entitled The Electoral College. 

#12: Toby Barker, Mayor of Hattiesburg, Mississippi

City Population: 48,455

Political Affiliation: Independent

In Office Since: 2017

Current Term Ends: 2025

Running for Reelection: Not yet announced

A former Republican and Mississippi’s youngest elected state representative at age 25, Toby Barker changed his affiliation to independent in 2017 to run for mayor of Hattiesburg. He soon surprised everyone by beating a four-term incumbent. He’s done such a good job revitalizing his city that he was reelected in 2021 with 85% of the vote. 

During his tenure, he has secured multi-million dollar grants to improve the city’s infrastructure, reduced crime, balanced the budget, and overhauled a public school system that was under threat of federal intervention. He credits his success to coalition building that defies partisanship and puts people first. 

Mayor Barker was recently asked to join the League of Cities 2024 Presidential Task Force, where he hopes to remind candidates from both parties about the importance of addressing the needs and concerns of local governments and their citizens. 

#13: Curt Skoog, Mayor of Overland Park, Kansas

City Population: 197,238

Political Affiliation: Nonpartisan

In Office Since: December, 2021

Current Term Ends: December 2025

Running for Re-Election: Not announced yet

A four-term city council member, Curt Skoog broke a 40-year duopoly of two-family leadership in the city with his 2021 victory. He cites political divisiveness as one of the main problems facing his city, and his leadership in Overland Park has been characterized by a focus on quality of life, economic growth, and sustainable development. 

As such, his administration supports numerous initiatives to enhance public amenities, improve transportation, and foster community engagement. He is chair of the Mid-America Regional Council of Governments (MARC) and co-chair of that organization's Creating Sustainable Communities Task Force. Skoog’s balanced approach to governance helps maintain Overland Park’s reputation as one of the best places to live in the United States.

#14: Bobbie Singh-Allen, Mayor of Elk Grove, California

City Population: 178,997

Political Affiliation: Independent

In Office Since: December 2020

Current Term Ends: December 2024

Running for Reelection: Yes, in November 2024

Bobbie Singh-Allen, the first Sikh woman elected as mayor in the United States, has been a beacon of diversity and progress in Elk Grove. Although formerly registered with the Republican Party, Singh-Allen is an independent who has embraced both the historic fiscal responsibility of conservatives and more progressive policies. 

Her administration has focused on improving public safety, supporting small businesses, and enhancing community services. Singh-Allen’s efforts in promoting inclusivity and cultural awareness have made Elk Grove a more welcoming city for all its residents. Awards and recognition include listing among the “Power 100” in the Sacramento Business Journal, an “AAIP Changemaker” profile in the Sacramento Bee, and the 2015 “Woman of the Year” award in Assembly District 9. 

#15: Bill Cole, Mayor of Billings, Montana

City Population: 117,000

Political Affiliation: Unaffiliated

In Office Since: 2017

Current Term Ends: 2025

Running for Re-Election: No, due to term limits

Billings mayor Bill Cole has been on a mission to build a working coalition between staffers, city officials, and residents with the aim of sustaining healthy relationships and addressing issues like crime and drug addiction facing the city. He firmly believes that change is only possible if it’s pursued together. 

One example of this is a series of moves meant to address the housing shortage in Billings. These involve reducing the cost and red tape involved in housing development and zoning, extending and modernizing city infrastructure, and incentivizing landlords to participate in subsidized housing programs for low-income residents. 

Mayor Cole won reelection in 2021 after running unopposed. He plans to continue Billings’ upward trajectory as a modern, welcoming city until the end of his final term as mayor. 

#16: Bud Starker, Mayor of Wheat Ridge, Colorado

City Population: 32,000

Political Affiliation: Unaffiliated

In Office Since: 2017

Current Term Ends: 2025

Running for Re-Election: Not yet announced

A restaurateur, developer, and former city council member, Bud Starker successfully won his election for Mayor of Wheat Ridge in 2017. As the city was the recent target of cyberattacks, Mayor Starker was committed to boosting Wheat Ridge’s infrastructure and tech capabilities. He also saw crime rates in his city drop by 26% during his tenure.

However, his passion is addressing the problem of homelessness through programs like Family Tree and a variety of policy initiatives. He’s also committed to destigmatizing mental health issues. As such, he allocated a substantial portion of Wheat Ridge’s American Rescue Plan funding toward raising awareness for the mental health crisis in America and making mental health care more accessible in his community. 

Mayor Starker won reelection when he ran unopposed in 2021 and helped Wheat Ridge to receive the All-American City Award that same year, partially through his large infrastructure projects and business development programs. He is chair of the Metro Mayors Caucus Committee on Housing, Hunger and Homelessness. 

#17: Tim Kelly, Mayor of Chattanooga, Tennessee

City Population: 181,000

Political Affiliation: Independent

In Office Since: April 19, 2021

Current Term Ends: 2025

Running for Re-Election: Yes

Tim Kelly’s goal as mayor of Chattanooga is to stem the tide of partisanship that seems to dominate politics at all levels. His focus on affordable housing and preserving the historic nature of his city are two of the driving forces behind his administration, and he proves it with a number of projects and partnerships aimed at providing hope as well as opportunity to all of his constituents. 

After he was elected mayor in 2021, he unveiled One Chattanooga, a city program with a focus on addressing racial inequities. Another program, this one in the pilot phase, is focused on providing affordable housing. The program, called PILOT (Payment In Lieu of Taxes), aims to incentivize property owners to provide housing options for citizens. Mayor Kelly has also secured funding for the state’s largest inclusive playground and partnered with 423 Chainbreakers to pilot a violence prevention initiative. 

#18: Lily Wu, Mayor of Wichita, Kansas 

City Population: 544,000

Political Affiliation: Libertarian

In Office Since: January 8, 2024

Current Term Ends: January 10, 2028

Running for Re-Election: Not yet decided

A former TV news anchor, Lily Wu is a registered Libertarian who successfully defeated the incumbent Democrat in the 2023 Wichita municipal elections. She is the first Asian American mayor in Kansas history, and the first woman elected to serve a full term as the mayor of Wichita. Her goal is to restore trust in City Hall and build an inclusive, thriving community that responds to the needs of all citizens. 

Prior to her election, she was named the 2015 “Leader in Diversity” by the Wichita Business Journal and the 2020 “Exceptional Young Leader” by the Wichita regional Chamber of Commerce. She also represented her state as Miss Kansas United States in 2012. 

#19: Hillary Schieve, Mayor of Reno, NV

City Population: 273,448

Political Affiliation: Independent

In Office Since: 2014

Current Term Ends: 2026

Running for Re-Election: No, due to term limits

After one term as an at-large city council member, Hillary Schieve was elected in 2014 to the first of three terms as Mayor of Reno. Her goal was to put Reno back on the map as a vibrant, welcoming, and progressive city through an intensive, national branding campaign called “Reno Revival.” Other policy priorities include the revitalization of Midtown Reno as a technology, arts, and business hub, fighting homelessness, building affordable housing, and making mental health services more accessible and affordable for Reno residents. 

Recognition for her efforts came in the form of notice by Politico Magazine as one of “America’s 11 Most Interesting Mayors” and the 2019 “Elected Arts Advocate of the Year” by the Americans for the Arts organization. In 2023, she became the first independent elected as president of the United States Conference of Mayors. 

#20: Yemi Mobolade, Mayor of Colorado Springs, Colorado

City Population: 502,306

Political Affiliation: Independent 

In Office Since: June, 2023

Current Term Ends: 2027

Running for Re-Election: Not yet announced

Yemi Mobolade broke ground in several ways when he won his election for mayor of Colorado Springs. A Nigerian immigrant, he became the city’s first Black mayor, and the first non-Republican mayor in 40 years.

Mayor Mobolade began his tenure with a comprehensive plan of action for his first 100 days in office. Since that time, he’s partnered with various organizations to build a business-friendly city that works for its citizens, with a focus on underserved communities. He’s committed to early childhood education that focuses on raising a generation that’s ready to tackle the challenges of the 21st century. His work on rebuilding infrastructure and securing funding for affordable, sustainable housing are a few more ways Mobolade is helping Colorado Springs become a city of the future. 

The Impact of Independent Leadership

The political landscape in the United States is predominantly dominated by the two major parties, the Republicans and Democrats. However, independent and third-party candidates are making waves, especially in local politics. Mayors from various cities across the country are proving that you don’t need a party label to make significant contributions to your community. 

These independent local politicians are proving that effective governance transcends party lines. Their accomplishments highlight the potential for independent and third-party leaders to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to local government. As they work to improve their communities, they also inspire others to consider independent candidacies.

Support the Independent Movement in Your Community

Are you inspired by these leaders? Consider running for office as an independent mayoral candidate or supporting a local politician who’s already in the race. Independent candidates bring diverse viewpoints and a commitment to serving their communities without the constraints of party politics. 

Get started by booking a meeting with a member of our team to talk about how you can launch your independent mayoral campaign. Or get started with free campaign tools designed specifically for independent candidates like you.

If you're not ready to run for office yourself, you can support the independent movement in other ways. Consider getting involved in a local independent campaign, spreading the word about their policy priorities, and encouraging others to vote. Together, we can foster a political environment that values diverse perspectives and prioritizes the needs of our communities.

Photo by Nils Huenerfuerst on Unsplash