Former Cincinnati Vice Mayor Smitherman Joins Crowded City Council Race

Christopher Smitherman, former Cincinnati vice mayor and city councilman, has announced his candidacy for Cincinnati City Council, joining a crowded field of 24 candidates vying for nine seats. He is running as an independent but has received encouragement from the Hamilton County Republican Party to run as a Republican. Smitherman cited frustration with the current city council's handling of crime, race relations, and development issues, specifically criticizing the council's response to a recent violent downtown attack and its approval of a Hyde Park development despite resident objections. He emphasized the need for experienced leadership to reduce crime, support police, and ensure responsible use of tax dollars. Smitherman has a history of opposing relaxed concealed carry laws and advocating for term limits on the council. While focusing on the council race for now, he expressed openness to running for mayor in the future.