Mara Zuniga announces candidacy for mayor of Athens

The following has been released by the candidate

With broad community backing and a record of hands-on service, Mara Zuniga, a passionate advocate fornbipartisan solutions and community-driven leadership, has officially announced her candidacy for Mayor of Athens-Clarke County.

Zuniga, who first ran in 2022 as a political newcomer, came within striking distance of victory against three

candidates, including a 12-year incumbent. She raised a significant sum of money in just two months of a quick turnaround election. Since then she has remained deeply involved across Athens’ diverse

communities—listening, advocating, and taking action where leadership has been absent.

“Athens has grown—and it is beautiful—but we still face chronic problems that haven’t been addressed by those who’ve had the opportunity to make a difference,” Zuniga said. “We need evidence-based,

results-driven leadership that restores trust among the people we serve.”

Her campaign focuses on housing affordability & homelessness, economic development and job creation, sound financial management and budget oversight, public safety, and essential infrastructure, issues she believes can only be solved through transparent communication, strong collaboration, and measurable outcomes.

“Mayoral candidates can promise a lot of things, but real change requires a majority of six commission

votes,” Zuniga added.n“That means building trust, proving ourselves through results, and leading with clear purpose.”

Zuniga brings a unique mix of professional and personal experience to the race. Beginning as an electrical engineering student, she built a career spanning entrepreneurship, job creation, workforce development through the Georgia Department of Labor, as well as banking. A bilingual world traveler with businesses across New York, Georgia, and South America, she offers the global perspective and local commitment needed to unite Athens around common goals.

Since her 2022 campaign, she has remained visible and active across Athens’ communities supporting

initiatives, attending local events, and standing beside residents through both advocacy and direct action. Mara Zuniga is ready and able to lead the great Athens-Clarke County.

You can learn more about Mara Zuniga at maraformayor.com.