Monifa Drayton’s in for Mecklenburg District 2 campaign

ARTS & SCIENCE COUNCIL

Monifa Drayton, chair of the Mecklenburg Alcoholic Beverage Control Board and former director of the county Democratic party, announced her candidacy for the county commissioners District 2 seat.

Monifa Drayton is campaigning for the Mecklenburg County commissioners seat held by incumbent Vilma Leake.

Drayton, a former executive director of the Mecklenburg Democratic party and community advocate, officially filed Dec. 17 to run in the District 2 Democratic primary against Leake, who has held the position for 17 years.

Drayton, who chairs the Mecklenburg Alcoholic Beverage Control Board, contends the district faces challenges from rising housing costs and displacement as well as public health disparities, workforce instability, and economic mobility. Her platform is focusing on more robust representation and service in an area made up predominantly of west Charlotte neighborhoods.

“This race is not about running ‘against’, but instead ‘for,’” she said in a statement. “It is about continuing to carry the legacy forward while running for the people of District 2 which deserves leadership that meets this moment. I am running because our communities need representation that is present, responsive, and relentlessly focused on results. Longevity alone is not a strategy. After nearly two decades, it is time to ask not just how long someone has served—but how well are all people are being served.”

Drayton, CEO of a strategic planning firm, has managed campaign for several elected Mecklenburg officials as well as experience in public policy, community engagement, workforce development, and nonprofits. As the district evolves, Drayton is focusing on building neighborhood relationships for its future.

“This campaign is about honoring the past while refusing to accept stagnation,” she said. “We can respect history and still demand progress. District 2 deserves leadership that shows up, listens deeply, and delivers results boldly.”

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