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CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WJZY) — The Queen City will have a new leader – as council members are tapping Robert Harrington to be the next Mayor. The Charlotte attorney beat out four other finalists after two rounds of voting Monday night.
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“I’m excited to work with this group of people. You can feel their passion about the city, and I can feel their passion about the city, and we’re just looking forward to the future,” said Harrington after the vote.
After more than 100 people applied and a list of finalists was narrowed to five, Harrington was selected to be interim mayor for the next 17 months. Harrington is president of the North Carolina Bar Association and served on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Library Board of Trustees.
“I think we offered what we have to offer. And that’s a record of leadership, a record of a record of collaboration, a record of listening. And I look forward to bringing those skills to bear,” he told reporters.
Harrington beat out Carrie Cook, who has worked in community affairs for the Federal Reserve. Following the council’s vote, she was asked if she will consider running for the office during the next election cycle in 2027.
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“I don’t know if I’m getting bitten by that bug yet, but I’m encouraged to see how many people have shown up. And I want all of these people to continue to show up and get to work for our community. And they are,” said Cook.
Cook and Harrington made it to the final round despite not having the endorsement of the influential Black Political Caucus. The group had endorsed attorney Harold Cogdell late last week.
Incumbent Mayor Vi Lyles, who was recognized for her public service during Monday’s meeting, is set to officially resign next week. Harrington is scheduled to be worn in on July 1.
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