If you’re like most people, when election time rolls around, you probably have a million things on your plate, and voting is just another item on that list. But voting is important! You may not know much about the candidates running for office, or you may not even know who’s running. That’s okay!
We’ve put together a list of questions you can ask the mayoral candidates so you can get to know them better and make an informed decision on Election Day.
50 Questions for the mayoral candidates:
- What’s your vision for the city?
- What are your plans to improve infrastructure?
- How would you attract more business and investment to the city?
- What strategies do you have to reduce crime?
- How would you improve public transportation?
- What measures would you take to make housing more affordable?
- What policies would you take to create jobs?
- How would you improve the quality of life in the city?
- What do you think is the most pressing problem facing the city?
- How would you address that problem?
- Do you have any plans to raise taxes or fees? If so, why and for what purpose?
- What’s your opinion on taxation?
- Do you favor or oppose charter schools? Why or why not?
- Are there any city regulations or ordinances that you would seek to change or repeal if elected?
- What are your top three priorities if elected?
- What are your thoughts on gentrification?
- What do you propose to do to address the housing crisis?
- How can we make our city more sustainable?
- Are there industries you’d like to attract to our city?
- How can we support small businesses in our city?
- What’s your opinion on unions?
- What can we do to reduce homelessness in our city?
- What are your thoughts on tourism?
- How do you want to make our city more inclusive for all residents?
- How will you fund your planned initiatives?
- Do you have ideas on how to make our city more affordable for all?
- Are there areas you’d like to improve/enhance if elected?
- What do you think about the city’s current economic situation?
- How do you plan to improve the infrastructure?
- What are your plans for education reform?
- Do you have experience working with city budgets?
- How would you describe your leadership style?
- What makes you the best candidate for mayor?
- What do you think is the city’s biggest strength?
- What do you think is the most important role of the mayor?
- How would you work with other elected officials and city staff?
- How accessible will you be to constituents?
- How would you handle criticism?
- What do you think are the most important responsibilities of the mayor?
- What do you think makes a successful mayor?
- What advice would you give to someone thinking about running for office?
- What sets you apart from the other candidates?
- How would you promote economic development in the city?
- How would you handle disagreements with the City Council or other officials?
- Would you be willing to veto legislation you disagree with?
- How would you handle a budget deficit or other financial crisis?
- What would you do to improve public safety in the city?
- Would you support hiring more police officers or increasing funding for law enforcement?
- What are your thoughts on gun control?
- Is there anything else you feel is important for voters to know about you or your platform?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of a mayor?
The role of a mayor is to act as the chief executive officer of a city or municipality. This includes overseeing day-to-day operations, managing the budget, and working with other city officials and local representatives to address pressing community issues.
The mayor must also be an effective communicator, both in person and through various media outlets, to connect with the public and convey his/her vision for the city. Overall, the role of a mayor is multifaceted and requires a combination of leadership, management, and communication skills to be successful.
What powers does the mayor have?
The mayor is the highest elected official in a city or town and has several powers and responsibilities that enable him or her to govern his or her community effectively.
These powers include setting policy, overseeing city operations, appointing officials and employees, representing the city at official events, and making decisions on major issues such as land use and zoning. In addition, the mayor has the authority to direct law enforcement agencies and city departments, negotiate contracts on behalf of the city, and make decisions on budgetary matters.
Overall, the mayor plays an important role in shaping the policies and direction of his/her community and must exercise his/her many powers wisely to ensure that his/her city continues to thrive.
Conclusion
Researching mayoral candidates doesn’t have to be daunting or time-consuming. By asking thoughtful and informed questions, you can get to know the candidates and make an informed decision come election day!
