Jaylen Smith graduated high school in May 2022, and he’s now employed. At only 18 years old, his new job will be to serve as the mayor of his hometown, Earle, Arkansas, making him the youngest Black mayor in America. Jaylen Smith has already made history as the youngest person ever elected to public office in Earle, Arkansas. He’s determined to use his new platform to improve the lives of everyone in his town.
Mayor Smith will be responsible for leading his community and making decisions that will impact the lives of its residents. He’ll have to hit the ground running and learn quickly, but he has the support of his community behind him. Serving as mayor is a big responsibility, but Smith is up for the challenge. “I’m just excited to get started and to show everyone what we can do,” he says.
In Earle, Jaylen Smith will be responsible for overseeing the city’s budget, working with the city council to pass laws and ordinances, and representing the city at public events. Smith’s election is a historic moment not only for Arkansas, but for the entire country. His election proves that young people can make a difference in their communities, and that they have the power to create change.
So far, Smith has been well-received by his constituents, who say they’re excited to see what he can do for their town. “He’s exactly what this town needs right now,” one resident said. “I think he’s going to do great things for us.” We wish Mayor Smith all the best as he begins this new chapter in his life.
