15.2 The Modern Relevance of Mayors in the U.S.

Mayors matter now more than ever. Whether leading a big city or a small town, they are often the public face of local government—the people residents look to when problems need solving. Mayors deal directly with the everyday issues that affect quality of life: public safety, infrastructure, housing, and jobs. Their decisions can determine whether a city thrives or struggles.

In large cities, mayors manage complex operations and serve diverse populations. They’re responsible for delivering basic services, balancing budgets, and setting priorities that keep cities moving forward. Many also represent their cities on national and international stages, working with other urban leaders to share ideas and address shared challenges like climate change, economic inequality, and public health.

Political theorist Benjamin Barber described this growing network of collaboration in If Mayors Ruled the World, arguing that cities—and the mayors who lead them—are uniquely positioned to take practical action where national governments often stall.

In smaller communities, the mayor’s role can look a bit different but is no less important. These leaders often know many residents personally and respond directly to local concerns. They work to strengthen neighborhoods, support small businesses, and maintain essential services such as roads, water, and waste management. Their leadership helps create a sense of belonging and shared purpose that holds communities together.

Across the country, mayors bring government closer to the people. They turn policy ideas into real-world results, tackle problems head-on, and build the partnerships needed for cities and towns to grow.

Reference

Barber, Benjamin R. 2013. If Mayors Ruled the World: Dysfunctional Nations, Rising Cities. Yale University Press.