Democratic Candidates for Charlotte Mayor Meet in Forum

CHARLOTTE, NC – Candidates sparred in Charlotte’s first Mayoral forum of 2017. Current Mayor Jennifer Roberts is facing a challenge from two of her fellow Democrats.

“We don’t have to get on international television and roll the Police Chief under the bus,” State Senator Joel Ford said.

Ford was aggressive as he challenged Mayor Jennifer Roberts’ leadership in the wake of the Keith Scott shooting.

“I would never undermine authority publicly, ever,” Ford said.

“I did not throw anyone under the bus. I am not about blaming,” Roberts said.

Timing of the release of police dash cam video was a contentious topic.

“To say we were really in charge of this, understates the complexity of those issues,” argued Mayor Pro Tem Vi Lyles.

The two hour forum at Weeping Willow AME Zion Church in East Charlotte also addressed LGBT rights.

“What I want to see is every individual succeed. No matter what group you’re in, deserves the respect and dignity of living in this city,” Lyles said.

Mayor Jennifer Roberts is standing by her decision to push through additions to the city’s non-discrimination ordinance that also allowed transgender people to use the bathroom of their choice.

“Every single person deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and equality. What is so hard about equality?” Roberts asked.

Ford argued he’s for equality – but the city should work hand-in-hand with Raleigh to avoid what happened with House Bill 2.

“The City of Charlotte could have gotten the policy right, but they got the politics wrong,” Ford said.

Ford says as a State Senator he’s prepared to bridge the gap and work with both Republicans and Democrats.