Mayor Bruce Harrell - Democratic Mayors

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell delivered his State of the City Address outlining his One Seattle vision for the year ahead and detailing his administration’s actions to drive progress on the community’s most pressing challenges and to create a safe, equitable, and thriving future.

Public safety remains a top priority for the Mayor, with efforts underway to hire more police officers and enhance public health solutions to combat the fentanyl crisis. Mayor Harrell emphasized investment in treatment facilities and the forthcoming announcement of a post-overdose recovery center to provide vital services to those affected by non-fatal overdoses.

Seattle continues to tackle homelessness in partnership with the Unified Care Team, which assists those in need and creates safe public spaces. Significant progress has been made in reducing tent encampments and addressing related issues such as gun violence and fires. Additionally, the Mayor outlined plans to address the housing crisis by advancing a comprehensive housing strategy and expediting the construction of affordable housing units.

Mayor Harrell intends to unveil plans for a transportation levy renewal package to address current infrastructure needs. Furthermore, downtown revitalization efforts are underway, with initiatives such as the Seattle Restored program supporting small businesses and artists to foster economic recovery.

Watch Mayor Harrell’s full address 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.