By Tan Walker | Community Health & Human Services Intern
A recent high school graduate, 18-year-old Jaylen Smith, has left his mark on the U.S. by becoming the youngest elected black mayor after defeating his opponent, Nemo Mathews Sr. in a runoff election. The teenager received 218 votes while Mathews only received 139 votes (MSN, 2022) .
Smith is a native Earle, Arkansas, with big plans for his small town. Earle has approximately 2,000 residents (MSN, 2022). After his victory, he expressed his gratitude to his supporters by sharing a Facebook post that reads: “It’s Time to Build a Better Chapter of Earle, Arkansas, I would like to thank all my supporters for stepping up getting people to the polls. I am truly grateful for you all.” Mathews, his opponent, also congratulated him on Facebook and wished him well.
Jaylen Smith told FOX13 about a few of his plans following the election. These plans involve improving public safety, tearing down abandoned houses, having effective transportation for the community, and bringing in a grocery store for the small town.
We would like to congratulate Smith for his outstanding accomplishments, and for being a young role model for the youth. Great job, Jaylen!
References
Sylvester, T. (2022, December 8). 18-year-old student, Jaylen Smith becomes youngest black mayor in United States. Kanyi Daily News. Retrieved January 9, 2023, from https://www.kanyidaily.com/2022/12/18-year-old-student-jaylen-smith-becomes-youngest-black-mayor-in-united-states.html
18-year-old Jaylen Smith becomes youngest black mayor in U.S. MSN. (n.d.). Retrieved January 9, 2023, from https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/18-year-old-jaylen-smith-becomes-youngest-black-mayor-in-u-s/ar-AA150Z1I?ocid=entnewsntp&pc=U531&cvid=b6acf121cc3f46be8b397a8f6993bc4f
PHAME-US.COM 