Mayor Andrew Ginther - Democratic Mayors

Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther presented his State of the City address, sharing the city’s equity agenda “Opportunity Rising,” which focuses on health and wellbeing, safe and resilient communities, and economic stability. Mayor Ginther’s top priorities are public safety, affordable housing, early childhood education and care, job creation, and climate action.

“We’re pressing forward, together, having found new and powerful ways to collaborate, united in a shared effort to eliminate the injustices and inequities that have held back far too many for far too long,” said Mayor Ginther. “We are breaking down every barrier, opening every door, and building the city we want – and deserve – by amplifying equity, resiliency, and excellence.”

To address the recent surge in violence, Mayor Ginther shared how Columbus is directing $660 million in the budget to advance neighborhood safety initiatives. These include the Right Response Unit, VOICE program at hospitals, ReRoute, the Group Violence Intervention initiative, and increasing police recruit classes.

Watch Mayor Ginther’s 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.