Meet Justin Bibb, the young mayor fixer

Our final profile in this special issue features Justin Bibb, who at 34 years old is the second-youngest mayor in the history of Cleveland, Ohio. Cleveland is the poorest big city in America; nearly one-third of its residents live in poverty. In the past two decades, city government has struggled in getting basic services to people. Turnout for Bibb’s election was just 23 percent, reflecting the doubts Clevelanders have that government represents them or will even listen to them.

Former Prospect Writing Fellow and native Clevelander Marcia Brown visited Bibb to see how he’s attempting to change that dynamic. She found a mayor who is prioritizing listening to the community and getting the little things done, like plowing the streets after a snowstorm.

In a city that has settled for less for so long, basic competence is progressive. But will it be enough for activists who have a laundry list of Cleveland’s needs? Bibb was a favorite of progressives in the campaign, despite personally eschewing the label. His success will be judged by what tangible benefits he brings to the people.