Jayden Williams, a 22-year-old Black man, NAACP-trained activist and newly elected mayor of Stockbridge, made history Tuesday by defeating a two-term incumbent to become mayor-elect.
Dr. Haigler opened the segment with enthusiastic congratulations, noting Mayor Williams secured more than 50% of the vote before early ballots were fully tabulated. The Stockbridge native, who campaigned on infrastructure improvements, economic development and youth engagement, described the victory as a divine blessing and a mandate to serve.
“Listen, I just got to give God praise because if it wasn't for him and the vision and for him to keep covering me, I would not have done it,” Mayor Williams said. “But I'm honored to serve the people. I'm so eager to serve the people.”
Mayor Williams shared that election night was emotional, with both sides of his family gathered, including his 80-year-old great-grandmother and 93-year-old great-grandmother. “We all just kind of sat there and had to cry for a moment,” he recalled. The moment underscored the generational impact of his win in a city of about 29,000 residents south of Atlanta.
Dr. Haigler framed the victory as proof against underestimation of young Black leadership. She highlighted Mayor Williams’ roots in a prayer-centered family and his rigorous training through the NAACP Youth & College Division. “You’re not new to this. You’re true to this,” she said, adding that his detailed vision for Stockbridge, outlined during a pre-election appearance on the show, clearly resonated with voters.
Mayor Williams agreed, emphasizing the rising power of young activists. “I think they underestimate that NAACP youth in college now,” he said. “We take over.”
The mayor-elect thanked the city of Stockbridge for its trust and urged continued engagement. He directed supporters to jaydenforstockbridge.com, where inauguration details and ways to connect with his administration will be posted. “I just want to say thank you to everybody that voted for me,” Mayor Williams said.
Dr. Haigler stressed that leadership timing depends on purpose, not age. “Timing is about where God has you in the plan,” she told Mayor Williams and the audience. “Timing is about what you have to offer for the people.” She predicted his win would inspire young Georgians to step forward, asking themselves, “Is it my time?”
To listen to the full interview, click the link above.