Bob Wallace, a Baltimore businessman and entrepreneur, recently announced his plan to run for mayor of Baltimore City as an Independent Candidate. Nevins & Associates President David Nevins sat down with Mr. Wallace to learn more about his candidacy, his platforms and what he hopes to accomplish as Baltimore’s next mayor.

David Nevins: Watching the Baltimore mayoral primary race was exhilarating, to say the least! What made you decide to throw your hat into the ring?

Bob Wallace: This is something I have been considering for well over 20 years now. I grew up in Baltimore and want what is best for my city and its residents. Baltimore is in a state of crisis and I believe that now is the time to act, rather than sit on the sidelines. I’m hoping to bring my entrepreneurial spirit and innovation to the mayor’s office and help this city out of the economic crisis and crime crisis we are facing today.

DN: So, rather than running with an affiliated party in the primary election, you are running as an Independent in the November general election. Why run as an Independent?

BW: On both a national and local level, partisan politics divides our communities and makes it difficult to challenge the status quo. My campaign is all about unity, connectedness and working together collaboratively to bring about much needed change. Running as an Independent allows me to focus on addressing the issues that really matter and unite our city as one.

DN: The next mayor of Baltimore will have a very tough job –improving public safety and reducing gun violence,addressing record levels of unemployment, all while helping the city recover from the devastating impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. Why do you think you’re best suited for the job?

BW: I bring what no other mayoral candidate brings to the table: proven business leadership with a track record of success. As a Baltimore business owner, I have created over 400 jobs for Baltimore City residents over the past few years. I know how to create jobs and am committed to expanding access to opportunities for residents across the city, including job and mentorship opportunities for young people. I also understand the challenges that many of Baltimore’s small businesses are facing today and believe I have the experience and knowledge to help these businesses recover from the economic impacts of the pandemic.

As a part of my economic development plan, I intend to create 100,000 jobs for city residents within my first term. I plan to do this by supporting small, minority and women-owned businesses, attracting new investment into the city, and focusing on emerging industries. It will not be an easy feat, but I am ready to take the challenges head on and help the city I love.

Listen to his recent interview on the Larry Young Morning Show here.

Learn more about the Wallace for Mayor campaign here.