Jessica Thomas
Columbia City Mayor
Empowered by GoodParty.org
About the Office
The Mayor is the chief executive officer of the municipality. They often preside over council meetings and may have the power to hire and fire heads of municipal departments.
Term Length
4 years
Election Date
Nov 4, 2025
About Me
Party
Independent
Occupation
Project Manager
Fun Fact
I am half Black and half Korean, I speak Korean, and I grew up in columbia but spent years and holidays in Alexandria, Virginia. My dad is one of the handful of African American SESs that's have worked at the Pentagon.
Past Experience
I was raised by a single immigrant mother. I went to public schools. By the age of 11, I was running the cash register at my mom’s Chinese restaurant, built from sweat, sacrifice, and love. She worked for everything she has, and I’ve done the same.
I’m not a traditional candidate. But these are not traditional times. The promise of opportunity is slipping away for too many people. I’m running because it’s time for inclusive, working-class leadership in City Hall, leadership that’s lived it, not just talked about it. I intend to build a city where no one has to put their dreams on hold just because they can’t afford to chase them.
My Top Issues
Thriving local businesses
Offering alternative methods for public input and participation
I would like to make public meetings much more popular, easily accessed, and participated in. Whether this means hiring translators, researching all the ways in which to broadcast our proceedings, and providing rides/accommodations, I would like maximum transparency and participation. I would also like to implement an 'open forum' type of ability to voice ideas or concerns.
Balance development with neighborhood preservation
I believe that Columbia deserves smart, balanced growth that honors our storied past and its hardworking citizens. I will fight to preserve our cherished historic neighborhoods and unique architecture—not let USC or other profit-hungry developers monopolize downtown and push out local businesses. We need real solutions: fixing homelessness, protecting the soul of our city, and rejecting the endless charades caused by over defining the districts that serve private interests over those of our community.
Who I'm Running Against
daniel rickenmann (Republican Party)
longterm politician with a record of serving on city council. buisness and development minded.
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