What is your name? *

Mike Russell

What is your age? *

59

What is your occupation? *

US Army Officer (ret), small business owner.

What is your city of residence? *

Atlanta

How many years in public service? *

Served 28 years as a military police officer in the US Army.

List your Community/Civic Affiliations: *

Piedmont Heights, VFW, Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

Where can voters find you online? (social media links & website) *

website: mikerussellatl.com
Instagram, FaceBook, Twitter: @mikerussellatl
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnjAXRl1I9xSkUJYIsoB9Ig

What is the position you are running for? *

Atlanta City Council President

Why are you running for office? *

To make Atlanta safer and better for everyone!

In what ways do you believe your experience will assist you in your position, if elected? *

I have served successfully as a police chief multiple times, I have delivered outstanding city services, and led large complex organizations from the local to international level. Those experiences will be invaluable as I lead the city council and form partnerships with other agencies to get Atlanta back on the right track.

Why are you the best candidate for this position? *

I have a proven record of successful leadership, and more experience in the areas that matter. I have more law enforcement and city management experience than all the other candidates combined.

What do you think your constituents need the most? *

Public safety is the first responsibility of government and it will be my first priority in office. The out of control crime in our city must be effectively addressed so everyone is safe!

What would you do differently than the predecessor in the position/office you’re running for? *

I will be more proactive and strategic in problem solving. I have already started forming coalitions and action plans to address the issues of crime, poverty, city services and the protection of our tree canopy. I will be ready to take effective action my first day in office.

What are the three (legislative) issues you will address, if elected? *

Public safety, improving city services/fixing the budgeting process, revising the zoning laws to insure a better not just a bigger city by preserving our neighborhoods, & protecting our tree canopy.

If elected, what is your plan of action the first 100 days in office? *

I am already working on legislation to update and enhance laws to address crime, stop wasteful spending, and improve our zoning laws. I will work with our new mayor to get city services back on track and accelerate road repair.

Itoro Umontuen currently serves as Managing Editor of The Atlanta Voice. Upon his arrival to the historic publication, he served as their Director of Photography. As a mixed-media journalist, Umontuen...

Dawn has ascended through the ranks at the The Atlanta Voice. Starting out as Sports Editor in 2017, Montgomery currently serves as the Chief Brand Officer. Montgomery earned a Bachelor's degree from Oglethorpe...