COLORADO SPRINGS, USA — The city of Colorado Springs experienced a political shakeup on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, as Yemi Mobolade, a Nigerian man with no prior political experience, was elected as the city’s mayor in a runoff contest.
According to a report by The Colorado Sun, Mobolade’s victory represents a seismic shift in the city’s political landscape, marking the first time a Black man will hold the city’s highest office.
Mobolade, a political independent, won a decisive victory over Republican Wayne Williams, pulling in 57% of the vote to Williams’ 43%.
The proportions remained steady from the initial tallies released at 7:15 pm through the second batch of results published just before 9 pm.
Williams conceded the race at approximately 7:30 pm.
Reacting to the results, an overwhelmed Mobolade said, “Wow. Wow. I am speechless. This is our win.” His victory speech resonated with hope and optimism for the city’s future.
“We are Colorado Springs. It’s a new day in our beloved city. Do you believe that? Colorado Springs will become an inclusive, culturally rich, economically prosperous, safe, and vibrant city.”
Mobolade, who relocated to Colorado Springs in 2010, has played a significant role in the local community.
He served as the city’s small business development administrator and co-founded two popular eateries, The Wild Goose Meeting House and Good Neighbors Meeting House.
He was also the vice president of company expansion and retention at the Colorado Springs Chamber and Economic Development Corporation.
Mobolade will succeed Mayor John Suthers, a former federal prosecutor and Colorado attorney general, who was term-limited.
In doing so, he will become the 42nd mayor of Colorado Springs.
With a wife and three children, Mobolade’s story is a testament to the power of local leadership and community involvement.
His historic election, in the face of political instability and despite his lack of traditional political experience, points to the potential for significant change in the city’s future.
