Jaylen Smith, an 18-year-old college student, has become the country’s youngest black mayor. According to the BBC, Smith was elected to the position of government in the remote town of Earle, Arkansas, after beating his opponent by a large margin, winning 235 votes to 185. In May 2022, Jaylen Smith graduated from Earle High School. In an interview with NBC News, he admitted that, despite being “confident,” he was still flabbergasted at the news of his victory:
“I was so excited! When I win, I have the weirdest facial expression! It was a real gift.”
The newly elected mayor added that his parents are proud of him and have supported him throughout his journey. Smith will be mayor of Earle, Arkansas, which has a population of less than 2,000 according to the 2020 census.
Jaylen Smith has a small town improvement plan.
Jaylen Smith revealed to NBC News that he hopes to open a new grocery store in the neighborhood after the current one closed years ago. When asked about his intentions, he explained:
“Our elderly need transportation to and from West Memphis to buy food.” So having a grocer in town would be better.”
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The 18-year-old has campaigned for mayor, vowing to improve the city’s sewer system, community engagement and police force, and take care of abandoned properties. Jaylen Smith, president of his school’s student government organization, revealed that he chose to run for mayor at the start of his senior year, with the support of his fellow student union members .
“The feeling is incredible, and future generations will read about this momentous occasion.”
During his campaign, he received advice from Frank Scott Jr., the mayor of Little Rock, an Arkansas city with a population of 200,000, who congratulated the new mayor by saying:
“I’m so happy for Jaylen and the entire Earle community as he becomes the country’s youngest African-American mayor.” I admire his courage to enter public service at such a young age, as well as his lofty ambitions for the city.”
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According to The Hill, Smith had academic problems, but that didn’t stop him from running for office, as he said:
“This impairment does not diminish my abilities; rather, it propels me toward greatness.”
Jaylen Smith will continue her studies at Arkansas State University Mid-South while serving as mayor, with the goal of one day becoming a prosecutor. Smith told NBC News that he plans to enjoy and celebrate the occasion with his friends and family throughout the weekend.
Let the article source Jaylen Smith Became The First Youngest Black Mayor In US History of website nyse.edu.vn
Categories: Biography