Atlanta Mayoral Candidates Start Qualifying ATLANTA, GA (WABE) - This week, candidates for municipal office are submitting paperwork to qualify for elections across the state. In Atlanta, two seeking the mayor's office filed theirs at City Hall this morning, and were joined by supporters.

WABE's Odette Yousef reports.

Supporters of city councilmember Mary Norwood filled City Hall's steps after the front-runner submitted her qualifying fee and papers. Norwood said as mayor, she'd focus on public safety, which is predicated on proper funding and getting city finances in order.

NORWOOD: So a vote for Mary Norwood is a vote for your protection. It's a vote for protection for yourself, your family, and your community.

Norwood dismissed as a distraction a leaked memo that called on black voters to unite behind one black candidate.

Businessman Jesse Spikes also filed papers. Flanked by a handful of supporters, Spikes said he thinks he can pull ahead:

SPIKES: When the voters evaluate the candidates based on the skills needed to take the city forward, I will win in that evaluation.

City Council President Lisa Borders and State Senator Kasim Reed are expected to file their papers on Wednesday.

Odette Yousef, WABE News.
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