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As Cincinnati approaches the 2025 mayoral election, the political landscape is shaping up for a significant contest that could determine the city’s future direction. With key policy issues like economic development, crime, infrastructure, and governance transparency at the forefront, voters will decide who is best equipped to lead the city in the coming years.
The Candidates
As of now, three candidates have declared their intentions to run:
- Aftab Pureval: The incumbent mayor seeking re-election.
- Cory Bowman: A Republican challenger.
- Brian Frank: Another Republican challenger.
The Republican Challengers
Cory Bowman
Cory Bowman, a 36-year-old pastor and co-owner of Kings Arms Coffee, is the half-brother of Vice President J.D. Vance. Inspired by his sibling’s political journey, Bowman announced his candidacy after attending the vice president’s inauguration. He aims to provide Cincinnatians with a choice in leadership, focusing on community unity and economic growth.
Bowman has emphasized his commitment to fostering small business growth, advocating for policies that support entrepreneurs and create local job opportunities. His experience as a business owner gives him insight into the challenges small businesses face, and he has pledged to reduce bureaucratic obstacles that hinder economic development. Additionally, his background as a pastor has shaped his focus on strengthening communities, improving public safety, and ensuring that all neighborhoods have a voice in city hall.
Brian Frank
Brian Frank, 66, is a U.S. Navy veteran and former Procter & Gamble employee. He has also worked in procurement roles at pharmaceutical companies and served as an aide at Cincinnati State under the late President O’dell Owens. Frank’s campaign slogan, “Make Cincinnati Great Again,” reflects his admiration for former President Donald Trump’s business acumen, though he emphasizes his ability to work across party lines.
Frank’s platform includes innovative ideas such as constructing an aerial tram connecting Mount Adams to the Hard Rock Casino to boost tourism. He also proposes outsourcing the city’s health clinics to private companies to improve efficiency and reduce taxpayer burden.
Key Issues in the Race
1. Crime and Public Safety
Crime remains a top concern for many Cincinnati residents. While city officials claim crime rates are improving, some communities feel that safety measures have been inadequate. The debate over police funding, officer retention, and public safety strategies will be a critical issue.
- Bowman’s Approach: Bowman supports increasing funding for law enforcement and ensuring officers have the necessary resources to address violent crime. He believes in strengthening community policing efforts and implementing faith-based intervention programs to reduce youth crime and recidivism.
- Frank’s Approach: Frank advocates for a tougher stance on crime, including increasing penalties for repeat offenders and cracking down on drug-related crimes. He has also proposed innovative solutions such as installing more surveillance technology in high-crime areas.
- Pureval’s Record: The current administration has faced criticism for not doing enough to curb crime, with some residents arguing that lenient policies have contributed to an increase in property crime and violence.
2. Economic Growth and Business Development
Cincinnati has seen major development projects in recent years, but many small businesses feel left out of the economic boom. Candidates will need to present plans on how to balance corporate incentives with support for local entrepreneurs.
- Bowman’s Plan: He advocates for tax breaks and grants for small businesses, particularly those owned by local residents. He also wants to streamline the permitting process to make it easier for startups to launch in the city.
- Frank’s Plan: Frank supports reducing business taxes and deregulation to attract more companies to Cincinnati. He believes in making Cincinnati more competitive with other Midwestern cities for corporate investment while ensuring job growth benefits local workers.
- Pureval’s Policies: The current administration has focused heavily on attracting big tech and corporate investments, but critics argue that these efforts have not significantly benefited small businesses or working-class residents.
3. Infrastructure and Public Services
Aging roads, public transit, and water infrastructure continue to be challenges for Cincinnati. Voters will look for candidates with clear plans to improve these essential services without burdening taxpayers with excessive spending.
- Bowman’s Vision: He wants to increase investment in road repairs and improve public transportation options while ensuring that infrastructure projects are completed on time and within budget.
- Frank’s Proposal: Frank has suggested privatizing certain infrastructure projects to improve efficiency and cut costs. He also supports expanding Cincinnati’s bus and commuter rail system to better connect the city.
- Pureval’s Record: Under Pureval, the city has pushed forward with several major infrastructure projects, but delays and budget overruns have been common complaints among residents.
4. Transparency and Accountability in Government
Corruption scandals and backdoor deals have plagued local politics in the past. Candidates who emphasize ethics reform, transparency in decision-making, and accountability will have an advantage in earning public trust.
- Bowman’s Plan: He has pledged to increase transparency in city budgeting and require public disclosure of all major financial transactions involving city funds. He also supports term limits for city officials to prevent career politicians from consolidating power.
- Frank’s Proposal: Frank wants an independent watchdog commission to oversee city contracts and spending. He has also proposed making all city council meetings more accessible to the public by mandating live-streaming and easy-to-find archives.
- Pureval’s Record: Critics argue that Pureval’s administration has lacked transparency, particularly regarding financial decisions and negotiations with developers.
The Republican Strategy: Can the GOP Gain Ground?
With Cincinnati being a historically Democrat-controlled city, any Republican candidate will face an uphill battle. However, local conservatives see an opportunity to gain traction by focusing on issues like crime reduction, business-friendly policies, and reducing government waste. If the Hamilton County GOP can unite behind a single strong candidate in the general election, they may stand a chance of making the race competitive.
Both Bowman and Frank bring different strengths to the race. The primary election on May 6 will determine which Republican challenger can build enough momentum to take on Mayor Pureval. Bowman’s community-focused approach and familial political ties may appeal to younger and faith-based voters, while Frank’s business experience and unconventional ideas could attract those seeking innovative solutions to the city’s challenges.
The Path to Victory
The road to the mayor’s office will require candidates to connect with diverse voter bases across Cincinnati. While downtown and Over-the-Rhine lean more progressive, many suburban and west-side voters are looking for a change in leadership. Effective grassroots campaigning, strong debate performances, and clear policy distinctions will determine who gains momentum in the coming months.
What’s Next?
The official candidate filings and primary races will clarify the field in the coming months. Until then, expect increased campaign activity, fundraising efforts, and public forums where contenders will present their visions for Cincinnati’s future.
Stay tuned to The Cincinnati Exchange for ongoing coverage, candidate interviews, and in-depth analysis as the race unfolds.
