Chris Kelley announces run for District 7 Columbus City Council seat

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — Chris Kelley announced Monday that he is running for the District 7 Columbus City Council seat. Kelley was joined by Shawna Love during his campaign announcement.

Love, who had previously entered the race, announced she is withdrawing her candidacy to support Kelley.

Kelley said the two decided it would be better to combine their resources and networks to move the local community forward.

One of Kelley’s top priorities, if elected, would be to bring back town hall meetings for the district to connect with and listen to constituents.

“I can’t focus on who’s running against me. I can only focus on running this race, connecting with the constituent and making sure that I stick to my why,” Kelley said.

He added, “My why is the people. My why is not position. My why is not title. That’s not why we do what we do. I think Columbus is tired of leadership that puts themselves first.”

The District 7 seat will be vacant next year due to current Councilor Joanne Cogle announcing her run for mayor.

Cogle is in her first term. She won the seat when longtime Councilor Mimi Woodson retired.

The election for the District 7 council seat is scheduled for May 19, 2026.