In 2022, Jaylen Smith ran as a democrat to be the mayor of Earle, Arkansas. At eighteen years old, he won 235 votes, beating his rival candidate Nemi Matthews, who received 185 votes.His victory made him the youngest black mayor in US history. This also made him one of the youngest mayors of any race in the United States.

Smith's mayoral priorities include: improving public safety and transportation, beautification and renewal of underused housing, emergency preparedness, and addressing the food desert in Earle. In preparation for his time in public office, Smith was given guidance by Frank Scott Jr., the mayor of Little Rock, Arkansas.

Mayor Smith embodies civil engagement with our communities, and being an active member within our cities to build a better future for all. As he states during our conversation, age should never limit us in terms of being a force for positivity and change in the world.

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Highlights

00:00 intro

01:00 Journey to becoming a Mayor

03:52 Challenges Earle, Arkansas Faces

05:42 Running a City at 18-years old

10:00 The rise of crime across American Cities

16:30 How to bring new jobs into your city

19:15 The Mayor’s close circle of advisors.

20:45 The most common misconceptions about politics.

21:45 Advice for younger generations