Mayor Mary Parham-Copelan reacts after securing historic third term in Milledgeville

Mayor Mary Parham-Copelan has been re-elected for a third term.

MILLEDGEVILLE , Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Mayor Mary Parham-Copelan has been re-elected for a third term, making history yet again as the first African American woman to hold the city’s top office.

Copelan celebrated her win at a watch party surrounded by family and supporters. Reflecting on the campaign, she acknowledged the controversy that arose early on when she spoke openly about witnessing racism as a child in Milledgeville. Despite this, Copelan credited her victory to the collective effort of the entire community.

“Those that died for us, those that went through slavery for us, my state rep that’s here tonight—the pathway that they have made for us to be, for me to sit in this seat. And I’m so ever grateful for everybody that continues to make sure that we can continue to have a seat at the table and move forward,” Copelan said.

Her opponent, Walter Reynolds, wished Copelan all the best. He thanked the community for its support and vowed to remain active in local government.

”Everyone that was a part of this campaign, you’re the reason why we did this and I assure you that tonight’s loss is not going to be any reason for us to disappear. We have to continue to show up. I will continue to show up, will continue to be a part of local government and holding our local officials accountable to address the concerns of this community. Thank you all,” he said.