Marilyn James-Johnson Enters Birmingham Mayoral Race with Focus on Education and Community Renewal

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Marilyn James-Johnson, a longtime educator and community advocate, has officially qualified to run for Mayor of Birmingham in the city's upcoming municipal election on August 26, 2025. Her campaign brings a fresh voice to a crowded field of nine candidates, including incumbent Mayor Randall Woodfin and State Representative Juandalynn Givan.

James-Johnson filed her paperwork on July 1, 2025, joining the race with a platform centered on educational equity, neighborhood revitalization, and restoring trust in city leadership. Though she has not held elected office before, she is well known in Birmingham's civic circles for her work with youth mentorship programs and public school advocacy.

Platform Priorities

James-Johnson's campaign emphasizes a "Back to Basics" approach to governance, with key priorities including:

- Education Reform: Advocating for stronger partnerships between Birmingham City Schools and City Hall, increased funding for after-school programs, and expanded access to early childhood education.

- Neighborhood Investment: Pledging to direct resources toward underserved communities, improve sanitation services, and address blight through targeted demolition and redevelopment.

- Public Safety: Supporting community policing models and mental health training for officers, while investing in violence prevention initiatives.

- Economic Opportunity: Promoting small business growth, job training programs, and equitable access to city contracts.

James-Johnson has also voiced concern over the city's rising homicide rate and the need for more transparent budgeting. "We must be honest with our residents about where the money goes and how it serves them," she said during a recent community meeting in North Birmingham.

A Grassroots Campaign

James-Johnson's campaign is rooted in grassroots organizing, with volunteers canvassing neighborhoods and hosting listening sessions across the city. Her supporters include educators, faith leaders, and parents who say they feel disconnected from current city leadership.

She has positioned herself as a candidate who will "listen first, act second," and has pledged to hold monthly town halls if elected. "This city belongs to all of us," she said. "And every voice deserves to be heard-not just during election season, but every day".

Election Outlook

With nine candidates qualified for the mayoral race, Birmingham voters will have a wide range of choices on August 26. James-Johnson's campaign faces stiff competition from seasoned political figures, but her message of renewal and inclusion has begun to resonate with voters seeking change.

If elected, she would be the first educator to serve as mayor in Birmingham's modern history and one of only a few women to hold the office.