Some Atlanta political veterans aren’t totally buying Bottoms’ explanation for not seeking reelection From CNN's Gregory Krieg Atlanta politicos were surprised by Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms' decision to not run for reelection, but they were hardly shocked. Despite her strong national profile, she’s run into some headwinds ahead of her expected run for reelection. The city has seen a spike in crime and she would have faced at least a couple of primary challengers. Two are already in the race, another could be joining and there is the shadow of her old ally-turned-critic, former Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed.