Supporter say Sid Sullivan represents minorities and youth
Young people are making up much of the crowd at Sid Sullivan’s watch party at the Broadway Brewery.
"He's just a cool dude," Columbia resident Khesha Duncan said. "He has the perfect mix of experience."
Duncan said Sullivan's background in finance and his work with a former Missouri senator were the main factors that won his support.
She also said Sullivan's history in the Civil Rights movement was a reason for her support. Sullivan marched with members of the Black Panther Party during the 1960s.
"Columbia needs to get with the new millennium," Duncan said. "As an African-American resident, it's time to quit coming to the neighborhood just when it's time to vote. I feel that is so disrespectful to the minority community. I don't believe Sid is like that."
MU graduate student James Robnett said mayoral candidate Sean O'Day helped attract younger voters and said many of those younger supporters voted for Sullivan after O’Day endorsed him this week. Robnett said Sullivan's push to create jobs was also important to students.
"I feel like a lot of people are wanting to stay in Columbia," Robnett said. "Jobs are a huge thing."
Even though Robnett met Sullivan for the first time today when the candidate knocked on his door, he said Sullivan is relatable to anyone.
Duncan said she feels Sullivan’s motivations were more altruistic than ambitious.
"I believe Sid wants to be mayor for the right reasons," Duncan said. "He has the will to do the right for the masses."