Councilwoman shows support for Mitchell as next mayor

CHARLOTTE — Saturday Charlotte City Council member LaWana Mayfield threw her support behind former councilman James Mitchell for the newly vacant mayoral seat.

The seat was vacated this week by Patrick Cannon, who was arrested on federal corruption charges.

When Cannon won the Democratic Primary last year, Mitchell was the runner-up with 39 percent of the vote. Mayfield said Mitchell is the logical choice to take his place.

"It's as simple as looking at who was the second highest vote-getter," she said.

It's unclear if Mitchell wants the seat. However, former Mecklenburg County Commission Chair Jennifer Roberts is interested.  Also, Eyewitness News has heard state Sen. Dan Clodfelter's name mentioned as a contendor for mayor.

Vi Lyles, at-large council member, said Saturday that she would serve if asked by her peers.

Few other current Democratic council members have expressed an interest. Even Mayfield said she doesn't want the job. However, she was adamant that someone who has already received the public's seal of approval should hold the seat.

"For the four brave people that decided to step into that role, there were two that received the majority of the votes," said Mayfield.

Mitchell is currently running for the 12th District congressional seat. Eyewitness News called Mitchell to find out if he's interested in the mayoral seat, but those calls weren't returned immediately Saturday.

WSOC