Atlanta City Council President Doug Shipman announced his plans to step aside at the end of his term. Shipman says medical issues in his family have forced him to step aside and not run for re-election.
“Recently my family has come to face significant medical challenges that will require me to focus time and effort on my most important responsibilities as a father, son, husband and brother,” Shipman said on his Instagram post. “While I will continue to vigorously fulfill my duties to the end of my current term, I cannot in good faith ask the voters of Atlanta to elect me again. The City Council President role is a full one and my expectations and the expectations of the voters are ones I cannot fulfill for another four years. I will not be running for re-election.”
The entire Atlanta City Council, and Mayor Andre Dickens, are up for re-election this November.
In response, Dickens issued the following statement:
“My heart goes out to City Council President Doug Shipman, his wife and two young children. I’m asking that the entire city join me in prayer for the Shipman family. We will do whatever we can to provide support to our friend and colleague as he navigates this difficult time.”
Shipman also added, “I appreciate the support of so many and I ask that my family be afforded respect for our privacy regarding the specifics of our situation. These unexpected life changes won’t change a few fundamental things- I will continue supporting those who are striving to help our city reach its full potential. I will always treasure the trust Atlantans have placed in me to serve.”
Shipman became Atlanta City Council President after securing a victory over Natalyn Mosby Archibong. He carried 54% of the vote in 2021. He was the former president and CEO of Woodruff Arts Center. Shipman was also the founding CEO of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
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