Mayor Phillip Jones - Democratic Mayors

In his State of the City Address, Newport News Mayor Phillip Jones outlined the city’s progress and vision for the future. He highlighted key achievements in infrastructure, economic growth, and public safety and emphasized the importance of community collaboration in shaping Newport News’ path forward.

Under Mayor Jones’ leadership, gun violence in Newport News has decreased by 25%, with homicides dropping by 52%. This success is attributed to strategic initiatives such as Operation Blue Line and Operation Ceasefire, which have strengthened law enforcement efforts, led to the recovery of over 1,000 illegal firearms, and improved collaboration with state and federal agencies. Looking ahead, the Mayor aims to expand the city’s police force, making Newport News the best-staffed city in Virginia while continuing to advocate for competitive pay for public defenders.

Investing in youth remains a top priority of Mayor Jones’ administration. Initiatives such as Friday Night Nets, a free summer basketball league for at-risk youth, and the Youth Career Program (YCP) have provided young people with safe spaces, mentorship, and career-building opportunities. To further support youth development, the city is reintroducing its summer jobs program, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to empowering the next generation.

Newport News is reimagining its downtown corridor with mixed-use developments, modern infrastructure, and dynamic public spaces by partnering with state and federal agencies. The Mayor is committed to making Newport News the most business-friendly city in the region by streamlining the permitting process and eliminating unnecessary red tape that has hindered small business growth in the past.

Watch the Mayor’s full remarks here.

More State of the City Addresses

Akron, Ohio

Mayor Shammas Malik

During his third State of the City Address, Mayor Shammas Malik outlined a sweeping vision for Akron’s future centered on collaboration, innovation, and community investment. The speech highlighted major new initiatives across housing, public safety, youth opportunity, sustainability, and economic development, all tied together through the city’s “Together for Akron” framework.

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.