
Rhodes announces intent to run again
Sanford Councilwoman Linda Rhodes announced Sunday her intent to run for a second term.
The filing period runs from July 7-18 for the seats currently held by Rhodes, Mayor Rebecca Wyhof Salmon, Ward 1 Councilman Mark Akinosho and Ward 3 Councilman J.D. Williams. Salmon previously announced her intent to run.
The municipal elections are Tuesday, Sept. 9, according to the North Carolina State Board of Elections' website.
Rhodes was elected as the city council's member-at-large in July 2022.
In a release, Rhodes said she is proud of the progress made during her term, citing support for infrastructure improvements and small businesses, continued revitalization of downtown Sanford, 'with plans to continue in historic Jonesboro.'
'We maintained our status as a strong contender for cutting edge business and industry ... and maintained our identity as a close-knit and welcoming community,' she said, adding 'we still look after our neighbors and recognize each other in the grocery store.'
Rhodes, a Democrat, noted that Richard Porter, the Republican who she defeated in 2022, is now her campaign manager.
After the election, the Rhodes and Porter families developed a close relationship, and Porter agreed to act as Rhodes' campaign manager, the release states.
'I am grateful for Mr. Porter's involvement in my campaign. Despite political differences, people should get along. No one group has all the answers. Respectful discussions benefit everyone by addressing shared issues,' Rhodes said.
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