District 7 City Councilor Joanne Cogle files intent to run for Columbus mayor

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — After weeks of speculation, a sitting Columbus councilor has filed her intent to run for mayor against the city manager she voted to fire in late May. 

Joanne Cogle filed her intent with the Muscogee County Elections and Registrations office Friday morning. She had been telegraphing to supporters and friends for several weeks that she planned to enter the race. 

Sponsored

class="wp-block-image size-large">

RELATED: Isaiah Hugley launches mayoral bid, eyes lawsuit against Columbus Council

Last month, former City Manager Isaiah Hugley filed his intent to run. That came a little over a month after seven city councilors, including Cogle, voted to fire him amid controversies in the city Finance Department and Animal Control.  The termination came despite the fact that Hugley had announced his intention to retire at the end of the year. Hugley is also threatening a wrongful termination suit against the council. 

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Attorney for Columbus councilors responds to cease-and-desist letter

Cogle is a first-term councilor who represents the district that runs the Chattahoochee River and includes downtown Columbus, the Historic District, Oakland Park and Overlook. Cogle owns a downtown Cross-fit gym and runs a fitness business that organizes races and other events. 

RELATED: Sunday conversation with newly elected Columbus Councilor Joanne Cogle

The mayor’s seat will be open next year. Two-term Mayor Skip Henderson is term-limited and can’t seek re-election. Currently, candidates are filing intentions to run. There is no cost to file that form, but it does allow potential candidates to raise and spend campaign funds. 

Cogle enters what is becoming a crowded field for mayor. 

Mark LaJoye, who has run unsuccessfully for sheriff four times, retired Army Staff Sgt. Steven Kelly, and political newcomer Kia Marie Legette have joined Cogle and Hugley in filing intent forms. 

Qualifying will be in early March of next year with the election set for May 19, 2026. 

RELATED: Second candidate files paperwork to run for Columbus mayor

RELATED: Third candidate jumps into Columbus mayor’s race

RELATED: Fourth candidate enters 2026 Columbus mayoral election; addresses recent arrest