After 35 Years, Next Atlanta Mayor Could Be White

ATLANTA (AP) -- Atlanta could have its first white mayor for the first time in 35 years. Blacks have been the majority population and voting bloc in the city for decades, but the demographics have changed in recent years.

Atlanta Councilwoman Mary Norwood, who is white, is one of the front-runners in the November 3rd election. Two black candidates are also considered top candidates.

Some in the African-American community are worried the black candidates may split the black vote and force a runoff.

All three front-runners have tried to steer the conversation away from race. But a group of black community leaders recently circulated a memo urging black voters to rally behind City Council President Lisa Borders. She is one of the leading black candidates.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)