Asheville Mayoral Candidates Met for Debate
Incumbent Esther Manheimer and challenger Kim Roney debated key issues as the November election approaches.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in City Hall
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Are you confident in the mayoral candidates' plans for your community's recovery and safety?
Asheville mayoral candidates Esther Manheimer and Kim Roney participated in a debate hosted by News 13. The discussion focused on the city's recovery from Hurricane Helene, public safety, and affordability.
Why it matters
The debate highlights the competing visions for Asheville as voters prepare to head to the polls for the upcoming mayoral election. Candidates addressed critical local concerns following the recent hurricane, shaping the final weeks of the campaign.
Incumbent Esther Manheimer secured 21,032 votes in the 2022 election, while challenger Kim Roney received 17,918 votes. Voters will cast their ballots for the city's leadership on November 3, 2026.
The players
Esther Manheimer
She is the incumbent mayor of Asheville who was first elected to the position in 2013.
Kim Roney
She has been a serving member of the Asheville City Council since 2020.
The details
The event allowed the two candidates to detail their platforms regarding urgent issues facing Asheville. Roney, who has served on the City Council since 2020, faced off against Manheimer, who has held the mayoral office since 2013.
Timeline
2009: Manheimer was elected to City Council.
2013: Manheimer was elected mayor.
October 6, 2026: The Asheville mayoral debate was held.
October 15, 2026: Early in-person voting begins in North Carolina.
November 3, 2026: Election Day.
Political Context
The current campaign follows the same electoral pattern established during the 2022 Asheville mayoral election. This contest reflects ongoing competition between local political factions over the future of the city.
Residents should prepare for the upcoming ballot by reviewing the candidates' positions on hurricane recovery and infrastructure funding. Early voting opportunities allow voters to cast their ballots starting in mid-October.
The takeaway
Voters are encouraged to utilize the upcoming early voting window to participate in the local democratic process. Observing the candidates' specific plans for recovery and safety will be essential for making an informed choice on Election Day.
What happens next
Early in-person voting in North Carolina runs from October 15, 2026, through October 31, 2026, followed by Election Day on November 3, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on upcoming local elections, visit the City Hall section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WLOS.
Live Poll
Are you confident in the mayoral candidates' plans for your community's recovery and safety?
