Philadelphia, PA – In a historic moment for the city, Cherelle Parker has emerged as the Democratic nominee for Philadelphia mayor, positioning herself to become the city’s 100th mayor and its first female leader. Born and raised in Northwest Philadelphia, Parker overcame personal challenges, including the loss of much of her family at a young age, to become a respected state lawmaker and City Council majority leader.
The Democratic primary race was highly competitive, with as many as five contenders considered viable when polls opened. Amidst the celebrations of Parker’s victory, there was some confusion when it was announced that she would not be able to appear at the party.
Parker had been hospitalized for a dental emergency but expressed her gratitude and excitement on Twitter, stating that she is honored to have earned the Democratic nomination.
Parker, 50, ran on a tough-on-crime platform, vowing to hire 300 new police officers for her community policing plan and restore the controversial stop-and-frisk tactic. She focused on championing Philadelphia’s “middle neighborhoods,” providing stability for working families through good-paying jobs, quality housing, and improved educational opportunities.
As a prominent figure in Philadelphia’s Democratic establishment, Parker garnered endorsements from numerous local elected officials, ward leaders, and influential unions in the building trades and service industry. Throughout her campaign, Parker emphasized her personal story, highlighting her experience and the only Black candidate among the top contenders. She resonated strongly with predominantly Black neighborhoods, particularly in her Northwest Philadelphia base.
Known for her commanding presence and eloquence in debates and candidate forums, Parker impressed voters with her vision and ability to address pressing issues facing the city. Despite facing negative advertising in the final days of the campaign, her opponents refrained from attacking her, and her campaign remained free from major controversies.
Looking ahead, Parker will face Republican David Oh in the November general election. With Democrats’ overwhelming voter registration advantage in the city, she is expected to secure victory. The winner will assume office in January, ushering in a new era of leadership for Philadelphia.
About Cherelle Parker:
Parker’s tenure in public office began as a senior staffer in Councilwoman Marian B. Tasco’s office, where she played a vital role in implementing economic and community development initiatives. She then served as a State Representative representing Northwest Philadelphia for ten years, making history as the youngest African-American woman elected to the State Legislature. During this time, she chaired the Philadelphia Delegation and secured significant funding for the Philadelphia School District, preventing teacher cuts and school closures.
Upon being elected to City Council in 2016, representing Northwest Philadelphia and the lower Northeast, Parker focused on public safety, stabilizing middle neighborhoods, economic opportunities for small businesses, and improving city government efficiency. As the Council Majority Leader, she led efforts to implement a comprehensive Neighborhood Policing and Community Safety Plan, aiming to reduce gun violence and address the underlying causes of crime in Philadelphia.
Parker’s vision for the city also includes raising the minimum wage for city contract employees, supporting homeowners through programs like the LOOP program that caps property tax increases, and establishing a free small business training and assistance program called PHL Power Up Your Business. Additionally, she prioritizes creating a cleaner and greener city through initiatives like PHL/Taking Care of Business (PHL/TCB), which focuses on cleaning and beautifying commercial corridors.
Throughout her campaign, Parker’s emphasis on public safety, economic opportunities, and addressing community needs resonated with voters. Her track record and dedication to serving her constituents garnered support from a wide range of Philadelphia residents. If elected as Philadelphia’s mayor, Parker will be the first woman to hold the position, symbolizing a significant milestone for the city.
Overall, Cherelle Parker’s journey and accomplishments exemplify her commitment to making a positive impact on Philadelphia’s education system, working class communities, public safety, and economic development.
