The election of Republican Mayor Melissa Jones coincided with a recent surge in federal funds for pandemic relief. But the town is still not free of division. While White neighborhoods remain mostly affluent, the Black side has suffered. Many homes sit vacant, and vacant lots are the norm. Gunshots can be heard daily in the streets. In addition to the tensions and corruption, Jones has become a target for Republican lawmakers.
As mayor of St. Louis, Jones's policies may have implications for the city and progressive politics throughout the United States. She has only been in office for three months, but her policies could have significant ramifications for the community. If Jones continues to lead the city in the right direction, the city could be on the road to improvement. In fact, Jones is already the first Black woman to hold this position in the history of the city.