Politics
Rhodes-Conway cites safety and well-being in decision to leave Madison mayor’s race
Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway says she will not run for another term this spring, citing threats and the personal toll of serving. Four candidates have already announced campaigns to succeed her.
Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway said Friday, Oct. 23, that she will not seek reelection this spring, pointing to threats against her and her family and the toll the job has taken on her mental health and well-being.
In a statement, Rhodes-Conway said serving as mayor had been an honor and that she was proud of the city’s record during her tenure. But, she said, the personal cost had become too great for her and her family.
Rhodes-Conway said she had welcomed disagreement and public input, but described a shift toward personal attacks and threats directed at her, city staff and members of the Common Council. She questioned how elected officials can govern responsibly when baseless conspiracy claims outweigh facts and disagreements lead to threats of violence.
Her departure opens the way for a competitive spring mayoral race. Those who have announced campaigns include Kaleem Caire, chief executive of One City Schools; former Dane County Board Supervisor April Kigeya; Madison Ald. Brian Benford; and former Common Council President Syed Abbas.
City leadership has faced heightened scrutiny following the fatal police shooting of Corey Ruiz in July. Rhodes-Conway did not say the shooting prompted her decision.