Election Day: Cleveland to pick new mayor and vote on other key issues

Today’s general election will determine Cleveland’s future direction

Voters lined up outside the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections in October 2020. Photo courtesy of Ideastream

Today, Justin Bibb, a 34-year-old political newcomer and winner of the September primary, will face off against Kevin Kelley, current city council president with over 16 years of experience in Cleveland politics.

This election is of great importance to many who believe the future direction of Cleveland is at stake. This is due to it being the first mayoral election without an incumbent on the ballot since 2001. Incumbent Mayor Frank Jackson- the longest-serving mayor in Cleveland’s history- did not seek re-election and will conclude his fourth term this year.

Also notable for this election is Issue 24, a proposed charter amendment that would give a greater police oversight to a civilian board in an effort to crack down on police misconduct. The amendment remains divisive among citizens and the mayoral candidates, with Justin Bibb for and Kevin Kelley against.

With only 16.2% of eligible voters having cast their ballots in the September primary, every vote counts in this tight race. Polls are open today, Nov. 2, from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Information on where and how to vote can be found on the Cuyahoga Country Board of Elections website.

More information about the candidates and issues can be found on the election Ballotpedia page.