WBTV 3 News, Weather, Sports, and Traffic for Charlotte, NC-Lassiter wants to be Charlotte's next mayor

Lassiter wants to be Charlotte's next mayor

By Steve Crump - bio l email

Posted by Jeff Rivenbark - email

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) - Against the backdrop of Eastland Mall, Charlotte City Councilman John Lassiter started his campaign on Tuesday for the highest office in Charlotte.

"I am letting you know today that I am running to be the next mayor of Charlotte, North Carolina," he said. 

Lassiter is running on a platform of economic development, law and order, as well as good roads which are things we've all heard before.

While Harvey Gantt was the last Democratic mayor to lead Charlotte, Republicans have owned the mayor's office for the last 22 years.  The race between Lassiter and City Council Member Anthony Foxx has the potential of setting new spending records.

According to Lassiter, "It will probably the most expensive race in Charlotte's history and it will be a difficult challenge for both candidates."

In state disclosure reports WBTV obtained from the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections, Lassiter, so far, trails Foxx in the amount of money raised.

Lassiter has just over $10,000 on hand compared to Foxes $71,000.   

Former Mayoral candidate Ken Gjertsen knows how expenses can add up.

"It costs money to do postage and stuff, but you have to get the message out to people who want to vote for you," Gjertsen said.

Beverly Lassiter, the woman who could be Charlotte's next first lady, is bracing for a competitive contest.

"This is our first time running in the top three or top four," she said.  "So, it will be a tough race."

Tough perhaps, but Lassiter says he's both accessible and accountable.

"I tell people I'm gonna do something--I get it done, and I don't seek a lot of glory and attention for the things I do," he said.