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Moderator Michael Pope (top left) questions City Council candidates Mark Shiffer, Alyia Gaskins, James
Lewis (center left), Meronne Teklu, Bill Rossello and Canek Aguirre (bottom) about local issues in the
ADC s first virtual debate.
With the June 8 Democratic primary arriving quickly, 13 City Council candidates gathered for two separate virtual debates hosted by the Alexandria Democratic Committee this week.
The first forum consisted of Bill Rossello, Mark Shiffer, Meronne Teklu, James Lewis, Alyia Gaskins and incumbent Canek Aguirre. Moderator and Alexandria Gazette Packet contributor Michael Pope questioned the candidates about some of the city’s most pressing issues, ranging from growth, development and affordable housing to collective bargaining, broadband competitiveness and the future of road diets.
By Olivia Anderson
At 25, Meronne Teklu has worked as a tech consultant, nonprofit manager and advisory board member. She’s also launched her first campaign for Alexandria City Council.
Teklu said she doesn’t view her age as a drawback but rather as an opportunity to bring a fresh, multigenerational lens to the council.
“As residents of this community, we have an opportunity to serve at all levels. I don’t think it matters what your age is, gender identification, race identification, class we all have that opportunity,” Teklu said. “I definitely don’t think [my age] is a negative thing; it’s more so ensuring that we have varying representation and perspectives that we bring.”