Colorado Springs mayor on the cost of staying independent
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Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade has no party line to toe in this election — and no party to watch his back.
Why it matters: Political independence gives Mobolade freedom from political loyalties, but little protection from partisan attacks.
- And he says the hostility has spilled beyond City Hall, threatening his family's safety and upending everyday routines.
Driving the news: In an exclusive interview with Axios, Mobolade described himself as "politically homeless" — without the allies, resources or reassurance that come with party affiliation.
- "In some ways, it's harder because I don't have a political home," he said. "On a good day, I'm pissing off both sides."
- He said the atmosphere became "more antagonistic" after he announced his reelection bid, adding, "Everything changed overnight."
Friction point: Mobolade says politics increasingly demands a choice between competing camps, even when governing requires common ground.
- Case in point: He argues supporting police and communities with strained relationships with law enforcement shouldn't be mutually exclusive.
- "I am on the side of Colorado Springs," he said.
Zoom in: He wouldn't pick a favorite in Colorado's governor race after meeting with both candidates, including Colorado Springs Republican Victor Marx.
- The mayor's priority is keeping the city on the next governor's radar, regardless of who wins.
- "A true political independent is independent of loyalties," he said.
The intrigue: Asked whether he voted for President Trump, he declined to say.
- But while discussing limits on mayoral power over development, he volunteered: "I do not want to be a local Donald Trump."
Mobolade says independence hasn't insulated him from threats that have disrupted his family's life.
- Just weeks earlier, officers guarded his home because of an active threat against him, he said.
- In another incident, his security detail increased after officers learned someone had threatened to kill him.
- His family has changed the locks. Even mowing the lawn raises concerns from his wife about his safety.
What's next: Mobolade faces voters in the April 6 election.
The bottom line: He makes no claim that independence makes his job — or life — easier.
- He argues that the city benefits from a mayor who can work with either side:
- "People want me to make enemies," he said. "I don't do enemies."