Alabama Town's First Black Mayor to Assume Office After Historic Settlement

Patrick Braxton will officially become Newbern's mayor following a legal battle over election rights and racial discrimination.

Patrick Braxton, elected in 2020, will be Newbern's first Black mayor after a settlement ends a four-year dispute.
The town, which has not held municipal elections for decades, will now conduct elections in 2025.
Braxton faced significant resistance from the previous white mayor and council, who locked him out of office.
The settlement requires the appointment of a new town council, with the possibility of a special election if appointments are not made.
The town's finances will be independently audited, and the plaintiffs' attorney fees will be covered by town funds.