Encouraging words from Mayor-elect Kasim Reed
By Maria Saporta
In light of my Maria’s Metro column this week, I thought it would be good to run the full statement that Atlanta Mayor-elect Kasim Reed sent out on Wednesday following the recount of votes cast in the run-off election.
This statement was made after City Councilwoman Mary Norwood conceded to Reed that she had lost the election.
It sounds as though our next mayor is saying all the right things. What do you think?
Kasim Reed’s statement:
“Earlier this afternoon, I received a call of congratulations from Mrs. Norwood. I thanked her for the well wishes and commended her on the outstanding campaign she ran and the gracious way she has handled its aftermath.
“The results of the election are final, and Mrs. Norwood and I are prepared to move forward in a way which unites our City and begins its resurgence. Campaign season is over and I want everyone to know, I have the utmost respect for Mrs. Norwood and take no personal pleasure in her concession today. She entered into the Mayor’s race for no reason other than because she has a true heart for the City of Atlanta. After seeing her up close and personal for the last 18 months, I know Mrs. Norwood to be a sincere, compassionate and earnest public official – truly one whose example should be followed by the next generation of aspiring leaders.
“Mrs. Norwood reached out to all parts of this city and got people engaged in this election in a truly inspiring way. She gave a voice to those who felt they have not been heard by city government. I have heard those voices and I have heard them well. I have also learned a great deal from the causes Mrs. Norwood has championed – and I give my solemn assurances to her supporters that we will make government work for the people once again.
“The time and effort they devoted to seeing our city get back on track was not given in vain. I will make Atlanta a city they will be proud to call home. Mary and I are fully committed to being the catalysts for the ensuing healing process. We will bring this great city back together, after a long and hard fought campaign. I look forward to the benefit of Mrs. Norwood’s support, counsel and above all friendship as we work to make Atlanta the best it can be.”
