Atlanta mayor Kasim Reed re-elected to second term

ATLANTA (AP) — Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed has been elected to a second term, defeating three little-known challengers as he continues to raise his profile overseeing a key city in the South...

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ATLANTA (AP) — Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed has been elected to a second term, defeating three little-known challengers as he continues to raise his profile overseeing a key city in the South.

Preliminary election results showed Reed winning another four year-term in Tuesday’s election.

Reed, a former state lawmaker, is perhaps best known outside the city for his strong support of President Barack Obama and his working relationship with Republican Gov. Nathan Deal on issues including economic development and transportation.

In making his case to voters, Reed touted reforms to the city’s pension system, efforts to reduce crime and his hiring of additional police officers. Reed has faced criticism over a plan to use public financing to help support a new NFL stadium and efforts to regulate the selling of goods on public streets.

Atlanta resident Timothy White, 26, said he voted for Reed because crime rates have fallen.

“I feel as though he’s doing a real good job, and he’s been consistent and deserves another shot,” White said.

Reed hasn’t been immune to criticism. Open government advocates have challenged him over a plan to use public financing to help support a new Atlanta Falcons stadium.

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