Newbern, Alabama: Incumbent Mayor Patrick Braxton has been elected as the mayor of Newbern, winning 66 votes to his opponent’s 26 in the town's first election in decades.

This victory comes after a three-year legal battle over control of the town government, drawing national attention and highlighting issues of governance and representation in a predominantly Black town.

The federal settlement that enabled this week's election was reached following Braxton's challenge to what he called 'hand-me-down governance' in Newbern.

For nearly seven decades, the town's leadership positions had been appointed rather than voted on, resulting in an overwhelmingly white government despite Black residents outnumbering whites 2-1.

Braxton qualified to run for mayor in 2020 and was poised to take office without opposition until the locks at the town hall were changed, denying him access to town accounts.

His subsequent legal efforts finally allowed him to occupy his position last year.

The recent election was mandated by a settlement agreement reached in 2021.

Braxton's opponent this time was Laird Cole, a white auctioneer and Realtor.

The landslide victory underscores the community's support for Braxton's efforts to restore democratic governance and ensure fair representation.

Madison Hollon of the SPLC Action Fund, which endorsed Braxton, noted that his election represents a significant moment in Newbern's history.

Braxton expressed relief at the outcome, stating it should dispel any lingering doubts about his role as mayor.

His victory marks an important step towards addressing the long-standing governance issues in Newbern and ensures that all residents have a voice in their local government.