Janet Cowell Elected Raleigh Mayor, Silver Wins Council Seat

Janet Cowell, a former state treasurer and Raleigh city councilor, has been elected as the new mayor of Raleigh, succeeding Mary-Ann Baldwin who did not seek re-election. Cowell won decisively in a five-way race, securing approximately 60% of the vote against competitors including Paul Fitts and Terrance Ruth. She campaigned on expanding affordable housing and improving first responder salaries, and has been endorsed by prominent figures such as former mayors Charles Meeker and Nancy McFarlane. Cowell recently served as president of the Dix Park Conservancy, where she was credited with raising $40 million in private funding. Her victory reflects Raleigh voters’ preference for experience and stability in leadership during this election cycle. Additionally, Mitchell Silver won the city council District A seat, indicating a shift in some areas of local governance.