Run for Office – McDonough City Council At-Large

I started thinking about running for office over a year ago. I remember laughing about it during McDonough’s hot chocolate social when I mentioned it to a council member.

Someone actually heard I was running for Mayor and along with two other council members and we laughed about it.

Then one day, at a City Council meeting, my opponent, came up to me and said, “I don’t know what you’ve heard, but I plan on keeping my seat.”

My response was simple: “Your seat is the only one open.”

That moment changed everything for me. Because the truth is — no one owns these seats. They belong to, us, the people.

Public service is a privilege, not a possession. These roles are meant to reflect the will of the community, not the comfort of incumbency.

As I reflect this morning, I want to encourage you not only to vote but to get involved.

Ask questions. Pay attention. Hold leaders accountable and if you feel called to serve — run.

I believe every incumbent should have a challenger, because democracy deserves a choice.

Competition brings out ideas, conversation, growth and real work! That’s how our community moves forward.

So as you prepare to cast your vote:
• If you haven’t heard from your council person in the last four years, ask why.
• If they only show up during election season, ask why.
• Have they engaged with residents, youth, seniors, veterans, and new homeowners or only appeared for photo ops?

There’s a big difference between showing up and connecting.

I’m proud to be a wife of a veteran, mother, grandmother and entrepreneur who cares deeply about this city. I believe we all have a voice here, and every voice deserves to be heard.

Leadership doesn’t start with a title — it starts with a choice.
A choice to step up.
A choice to serve.
A choice to believe we can build something better, together.

Every voice matters. Every vote counts. Together, your participation is our city’s superpower.

✅Double-check your location now: mvp.sos.ga.gov

Let’s build a better McDonough, together. 🌺

Montina Young Fraiser
Candidate McDonough City Council At-Large