Mayor Brandon M. Scott - Democratic Mayors

Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott gave his State of the City Address, emphasizing the importance of bold leadership, community involvement, and perseverance in addressing the city’s challenges and realizing its potential.

The Mayor discussed efforts to address gun violence in Baltimore, citing a 20% reduction in homicides and the implementation of various strategies to combat crime. He emphasized the importance of community engagement and collaboration in these efforts, highlighting initiatives such as Safe Streets, We Our Us, the PEACE Team, and the Squeegee Collaborative as examples of successful partnerships between the city government and local organizations.

Another area of focus in Mayor Scott’s address was youth empowerment and investment in their future. Mayor Scott highlighted the success of initiatives such as Youthworks, which provides summer jobs for young people and career opportunities for recent graduates through the Mayor’s HBCU Fellowship Program. He also shared ongoing efforts to enhance school infrastructure and support initiatives to improve student outcomes.

Addressing public health challenges, the Mayor highlighted initiatives aimed at reducing infant mortality rates, protecting reproductive rights, and addressing the opioid epidemic. He also underscored the importance of supporting Baltimore’s older adults and addressing housing challenges.

Watch the Mayor’s full remarks here.

More State of the City Addresses

Evansville, Indiana

Mayor Stephanie Terry

In her third State of the City Address, Mayor Stephanie Terry reflected on a year defined by steady progress and continued work to build a vibrant, inclusive community where safety, opportunity, and connection help all residents thrive. Speaking under the theme “Building What Matters,” she emphasized that the city’s progress is driven by people—city employees, partners, and residents—who continue to show up and invest in Evansville’s future.

Scranton, Pennsylvania

Mayor Paige Cognetti

Scranton Mayor Paige G. Cognetti delivered her State of the City Address, outlining a six-year turnaround that has taken the city from the brink of financial distress to a position of stability and growth, while continuing investments in public safety, infrastructure, quality of life, and lower costs for residents. Mayor Cognetti also highlighted Scranton’s financial progress, including three credit rating upgrades since exiting financially distressed status in 2022 and achieving its current A- rating with a stable outlook.

Minneapolis , Minnesota

Mayor Jacob Frey

In his State of the City Address, Mayor Jacob Frey said the city is strong but emphasized that Minneapolis must refocus on the fundamentals of city government and on delivering results. Reflecting on a difficult year marked by disruption and challenges across the community, Mayor Frey said the city demonstrated resilience and resolve while stressing the importance of prioritizing safe streets, stable housing, and a strong local economy.