The race for Durham mayor is on, with a familiar name running against Williams
A familiar last name will appear on the ballot this year in the race for Durham mayor.
Anjanée Bell (pronounced AHN-jah-NAY), the daughter of former longtime Mayor William V. “Bill” Bell, filed to run for mayor Monday morning, the first day of candidate filing. She is the first person to officially challenge incumbent Mayor Leonardo Williams for the spot this year.
Williams launched his campaign for re-election in June. He was first elected to the Durham City Council in 2021 and was elected mayor in 2023.
Bell began fundraising in February. Her tagline and slogan, “Durham is H.O.P.E.,” is a “clear, people-powered plan to build a better Durham for everyone,” according to a press release.
“Too many of our neighbors are being priced out, pushed out, or left behind,” Bell said in a statement. “I am running to lead with clarity and compassion, and to help build a Durham that truly works for the people who already call it home.”
Durham’s primary election is Oct. 7 and the general election is Nov. 4.
Aside from the mayor’s seat, the seats held by City Council members DeDreana Freeman, Mark-Anthony Middleton, and Chelsea Cook are on the ballot this year.
Freeman, who serves Ward 1, filed for re-election on Monday.
Durham is Dope and Durham is H.O.P.E
Bell prioritizes tenant protection and housing, local businesses, public safety, education and the environment in her platform.
According to her website, Bell is a single mother raising three children, and by witnessing her father’s leadership, she “watched decisions made not for applause, but for impact.”
“I saw what it takes to carry both the weight and the responsibility of people’s trust. It was the best master class I could have received,” her website states. Currently, Bell is an arts coordinator in the North Carolina State Parks.
Williams’ slogan throughout his first campaign and mayorship, “Durham is dope,” has become a catch phrase in the city. According to his website, his priorities are affordable living, city growth, opportunity and innovation, culture and public safety.
“Durham is dope, not just because of its culture, creativity and resilience, but because of everyday people like you,” his website states.
Before running for mayor, Williams was a Durham Public Schools teacher, administrator and entrepreneur. He also operates a restaurant with his wife, Zweli.
On his website, Williams said his campaign “isn’t about me.”
“It’s about what’s best for our city now and creating a legacy for the future,” he said.
The filing period ends July 18.
This story was originally published July 8, 2025 at 7:00 AM.