'We're at a crossroads': Ald. Marina Dimitrijevic enters race for next Milwaukee mayor
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A Milwaukee alderwoman is now joining the growing race to become Milwaukee's next mayor.
Marina Dimitrijevic (District 14) announced her campaign Monday, Oct. 18, with a mission of making the city more equitable.
I’m so excited to announce that I’m officially launching my campaign for mayor.
— Marina Dimitrijevic ??? (@MarinaForMKE) October 18, 2021
This campaign is all about giving everyone in Milwaukee a seat at the table - it’s the only way to move our city forward! pic.twitter.com/zlu6bCcZAA
She called it "thrilling" to be part of the conversation to change not only Milwaukee, but also people's lives in the city. She would be the first woman mayor.
Dimitrijevic said she is focused on many issues including child care, ending the pandemic and tackling the city's housing issues.
"If you don't have a stable, quality home free of lead, free of lead poisoning, that has safe, clean drinking water that's your stability, how can you build out from there?" she asked.
The Bay View resident joins three other candidates: Common Council President Cavalier Johnson, Milwaukee County Sheriff Earnell Lucas and former Milwaukee alderman Bob Donovan.
One would take over for current Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, who is expected to become the next ambassador to Luxembourg.
Nominated by President Joe Biden, Barrett's confirmation must still be confirmed by the U.S. Senate.
Barrett has led the city since 2004.
"We're at a crossroads, and I think we need bold solutions, progressive ideas to move this city forward. And I do think I'm the woman for the job," said Dimitrijevic.
With her announcement, Dimitrijevic also declared an anti-racist agenda -- saying no one should be limited by their ZIP code.
She's also passionate about the success of Milwaukee students.
"And so the next part of that is having strong public schools. It is a separate governmental system, but I'm going to make it my business every single day to make sure our Milwaukee students have everything that they need to succeed."
Before joining the mayoral race, Dimitrijevic served as chairwoman of the Milwaukee County Board.