CINCINNATI — As the state approaches the closing stretch before the Nov. 2 election, Spectrum News 1 is profiling both candidates vying to be the next mayor of Cincinnati. Democrats Aftab Pureval and David Mann are the final two candidates.

What You Need To Know

  • Aftab Pureval and David Mann are the two candidates vying to become mayor of Cincinnati 
  • Pureval is looking to give Cincinnati a fresh start, with what he says is a new approach with a new wave of leaders
  • Pureval’s plan includes a focus on economic recovery, public safety, affordable housing and the environment
  • He also hopes to make Cincinnati more inclusive
  • Cincinnati’s mayor election takes place Nov. 2, and early voting started Oct. 5
  • The winner will take office in January

Mann has been a member of Congress and was the former mayor of Cincinnati. Mann, 82, is currently a city councilman. To learn more about Mann, click here.

His opponent, Aftab Pureval, is the current Hamilton County Clerk of Courts and is less than half of Mann’s age at 39. 

“This is about the future versus the past,” Pureval said. “Our campaign is laser-focused on how do we win the next decade.” 

Pureval said his priorities include economic recovery amid the pandemic, public safety, affordable housing and an environmental plan.

He said this election cycle is extremely important and promises to make significant change for a city at a crossroads. 

“For our city, for our region and also for our state,” Pureval said. “Listen: It’s been a really, really challenging year in Cincinnati. Challenging because of the pandemic. Challenging because of the economic down turn. Challenging because of the increase in violence. And what’s unique to Cincinnati is several indictments on city council."

Pureval said this new wave of leaders that will be coming on will be crucial for Cincinnati’s future.

“We’ve got a new mayor, a new council, a new police chief (and) a new chief of fire," he said. “We’ve got a chance to turn the page on this ugly chapter and push our city forward.” 

In May, Pureval received the most votes of any candidate in the non-partisan primary. He feels he’s the right fit for the job because it’s something he’s been building toward for most of his life. 

“For most of my career, I’ve been a public servant,” Pureval said. “Trying to improve my community, trying to lift up those around me. I really view the position as mayor as the best opportunity I will have to really improve our community. We need to all be in this together in order to push Cincinnati forward.”

Early voting is ongoing through Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 2. For more information visit the Hamilton County Board of Elections website.

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