INSIDE INGLEWOOD: With Winners Defeating Congresswoman Maxine Waters’ Candidates,Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts, Jr. Continues to Lead

With Winners Defeating Congresswoman Maxine Waters’ Candidates, Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts, Jr. Continues to Lead

The Southern Truth

By Gloria Zuurveen, Editor-in-Chief

Tuesday night at the Nile Bar and Restaurant on Market Street, the crowd was full of celebration. Supporters reveled in the stunning defeat of Congresswoman Maxine Waters’ favored candidates in key positions throughout the City of Inglewood. It was a hard-fought battle against a seasoned veteran and celebrated figure, known widely as “Auntie Maxine.” Tuesday marked a momentous event, and I had the privilege of witnessing it firsthand.

Angela Allen was all smiles when I arrived at the Nile Bar, hearing the good news from David Rice, who, clutching his phone, exclaimed, “We did it! They won!” I joined in, hugging him in celebration of this significant victory. The message Inglewood residents sent through their votes was powerful; they looked past political rhetoric to choose candidates they believe will continue guiding Inglewood toward greater heights, rising like a Phoenix from the ashes. They refused to allow anyone to undermine their progress.

The victories were sweeping. Along with candidate Eloy Morales, Jr., who ran unopposed, two Inglewood Unified School District (IUSD) board candidates also secured wins. The crowd celebrated Aisha L. Thompson’s unchallenged win, with over 21,000 votes in her favor. Angela Allen, the new City Treasurer, won with 59.56% of the vote against Waters’ candidate, Taylor R. Bryant, who held 40.44%. Dionne Faulk, the incumbent 4th District Council Member, who won with 58.11% of the votes worked tirelessly to retain her seat against multiple opponents, including Leslie Jones who had 16.15% of the vote with Congresswoman Waters endorsement. By the time I arrived, Taylor and Jones had been declared defeated, solidifying victories for Allen, Faulk, and Thompson.

Inglewood’s transformation over the years has been remarkable. Under the leadership of Mayor James T. Butts, Jr., in office since 2011, the city has seen vast improvements in business development, infrastructure, and crime reduction. Mayor Butts has led a resurgence, with major sports and entertainment venues contributing to economic revitalization. The construction of SoFi Stadium, home to the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers, has drawn millions of visitors and boosted the local economy. With major events like the Super Bowl and the 2028 Summer Olympics on the horizon, Inglewood has solidified its status as a premier hub for sports and entertainment.

But this success hasn’t come without challenges. Inglewood has faced criticism for gentrification and the displacement of longtime residents, as rising property values and rents make it harder for low-income families to remain. Mayor Butts’ administration has responded by implementing affordable housing initiatives and support programs for vulnerable residents.

Despite these hurdles, Inglewood thrives, bolstered by new development, luxury apartments, high-end retail, and upscale dining. The revitalized downtown area, with enhanced public spaces and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, is a testament to Inglewood’s resurgence. A significant part of this success lies in the city’s ability to attract and retain talented leaders, allowing it to take on ambitious projects like the SoFi Stadium and an extensive affordable housing program.

Most importantly, Inglewood has succeeded in fostering unity amidst political division. Despite the powerful influence of Congresswoman Waters and her allies, the residents of Inglewood showed their commitment to their city by voting for candidates and policies they believe will best serve their community.

The recent election results underscore this spirit of unity. The defeat of Waters’ candidates for treasurer and city council sends a strong message: Inglewood residents are unwilling to be swayed by external political forces. Instead, they have chosen leaders who they trust will build on the progress made under Butts’ leadership.

This victory goes beyond politics—it is a triumph for communities determined to control their own futures. When united, a community can overcome even the toughest political challenges. As Inglewood continues to flourish, maintaining this spirit of unity will be essential and with dedicated leaders like Mayor James T. Butts, Jr., and a community committed to its success, there is no doubt Inglewood will continue to serve as an example of what can be achieved when a city’s residents work together toward a shared goal.

Ultimately, Inglewood’s triumph over Congresswoman Waters’ favored candidates is not just a political win—it’s a testament to the power of community and the importance of local leadership. It shows that when a community stands united, it can face any obstacle and continue to grow, prosper, and rise.

The Southern Truth