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Dante Anderson
Party:
Democratic
Incumbent:
Yes
Previous experience in elected office:
Mayor Pro Tem; City Council for District 1 Representative (2022–present)
Age:
~52
Occupation:
Former Chief Business Officer at Cisco (2021–2023)
Description:
Anderson’s platform focuses on affordable housing, livable wages, public safety, and expanding employment opportunities across Charlotte. She was elected Mayor Pro Tem in December 2023, breaking from tradition after receiving fewer at-large votes than another councilmember. She regularly fills in for Mayor Vi Lyles in leading zoning meetings and other meetings. She is strongly allied with Lyles, supports the proposed increase in the sales tax for transit and transportation and is considered a backer of initiatives put forward by city staff.
Other personal:
Anderson is a South Charlotte native and a graduate of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. She earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and media studies from MIT (1995), an MFA in cinema studies from NYU (1999), and an MBA from Harvard Business School (2003). She identifies as LGBTQ+ and is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.
The Election Hub Questionnaire
Please provide demographic information about yourself to help voters (age, education, current occupation, where you live).
I’m a Charlotte native, born & raised. I’ve been civically engaged in community for years. I have over 25 years of work experience in corporate America managing billion dollar budgets, driving economic development and helping communities thrive. I’ve done the same for District 1 for the last 2 terms on Charlotte City Council and serving as the first district representative to be voted Mayor Pro Tem.
I hold a Bachelor of Science from MIT, a Master of Arts from the Tisch School-NYU and a MBA from the Harvard Business School.
Why are you running for this role and why should voters pick you?
Over the last two terms, I’ve fought to build hundreds of affordable housing units, attract hundreds of good paying jobs, and help cultivate safer neighborhoods for families to live and thrive.
District 1 has proven leadership in me. I’ve work tirelessly to expand opportunity for all District 1 residents.
I’ll continue to fight for Arts & Culture, our civil servants and our elders aging in place.
I’ll continue to work hard to put Charlotte on the global stage securing great events like PFL MMA, 2026 World Cup games, ACC Tournaments, 2026 MLS All Star Game and more!
What is one thing you would like to accomplish in the first six months if elected?
I currently have a street vending pilot program occurring in NoDa. I worked with small business owners, street vendors and residents to address concerns yet protect neighborhood aesthetic & charm. The policy covering this issue hadn’t been touched in decades. I worked with my colleagues to update policy to allow the pilot to occur. Once the pilot ends, we plan to access impact, make modifications to address the issue throughout the entire city.
What is your position on the proposed transit tax and why? Will you vote in favor of it or against it in November?
I support the transit tax. Charlotte has sustained continual growth for years. As the 14th largest city in the United States, we must invest in a robust transportation plan. We cannot drive our way out of congestion. Just ask Atlanta! Residents need safe reliable options like Better Bus, additional Light Rail, Commuter Rail and Micro Transit to help them reduce travel time & cost.
What endorsements from any notable NC organizations or individuals have you received?
I’m grateful to receive the Black Political Caucus endorsement during their 60th year of community advocacy.
I’m honored to be endorsed by the Charlotte Observer.
Tell us something unexpected about you that voters may be interested to know.
Fun fact about me - I’m an avid scuba diver. I’ve summited the largest free standing mountain in the world, Kilimanjaro and completed amazing treks like the Lost City trek and Mount Everest Base Camp. I’m taken my exploration under the sea!
It’s important for voters to understand who is representing them. Know their real names, know their voting history, know their comprehension level of policy, know their experience in economic development, leadership skills, ability to work with a board of other strong policy makers and advocate for District 1 while doing so.
Your representation for District 1 is not something you should “take a chance” on. Stick with proven leadership with a more precise vision for District 1 - Danté Anderson.