Friends
I’m Mickell Lowery, and I’m running for Shelby County Mayor because public service is a responsibility that demands respect - respect for people, for process, and for the community we are entrusted to represent.
Earlier this week, during a County Commission meeting, one of my colleagues repeatedly disrespected women, fellow commissioners, staff, and even the public. I spoke out because that behavior has no place in our chambers and no place in public service. As I said then: disagreement is inevitable, but disrespect is never acceptable. I introduced a resolution to hold members accountable because the culture of this body must change, and leadership starts by setting that standard.
That moment reflects why I’m running. My career has never been about political games. It has been defined by service, accountability, and showing up for others - whether that was 13 years coaching youth football, mentoring students through after-school programs, or serving on boards that strengthen our community.
And now, as a father and a public servant, I know our county is at a crossroads. Families are being priced out of basic needs. Children in medical deserts struggle to access care. Students with unique learning needs don’t get the resources they deserve. Working people feel unheard by a political class more focused on infighting than solutions.
I’m running for Mayor to change that.
I’m running because our budget decisions should reflect working people, not special interests.
I’m running because every child deserves a fair start, including pre-K for all and real mental health support.
I’m running because a safer county means investing in prevention, opportunity, and real accountability.
I’m running because respect — for people and for the office — is not optional. It is the foundation of leadership.
But I cannot win this race, or deliver the change our families deserve, without a grassroots movement behind me.
If you are able, can you chip in today to help us build the countywide organizing effort we need to win — so we can deliver universal pre-K, expand healthcare access, modernize our safety systems, and restore respect to county government? Every contribution strengthens this people-powered campaign.
