Memphis Mayor’s Race 2023: J.W. Gibson
Memphis mayoral candidate JW Gibson speaks at a July 22, 2023 mayoral forum at Mississippi Boulevard Baptists Church. (Patrick Lantrip/The Daily Memphian file)
Back in the day, James Wesley Gibson literally pulled himself up as a lineman climbing poles for MLGW — Memphis Light, Gas and Water.
“When he retired in 1979,” said his son, J.W. Gibson, “he was supervisor of safety.”
A change agent — not just for himself, but for his family — J.W. Gibson grew up as one of six children. Most of all, he had a real-life, walking-and-talking model of starting in one place and working to go higher.
And so now, J.W. Gibson is a successful businessman and a candidate for mayor. He is a long way from Dixie Homes, where he grew up, yet oh so close, too.
This was, and is, his city.
Read more about Gibson here: ‘A responsibility to give back’ drives businessman J.W. Gibson’s mayoral run
To learn more about all of the candidates, visit The Daily Memphian’s 2023 City of Memphis election landing page.
In his own words
What is the most pressing issue facing the city today?
Crime.
What do you think the City of Memphis budget should spend more on? What do you think it should spend less on?
More of the city’s budget should be spent on community development and less on renovation of city offices.
Is the City of Memphis going in the right direction?
No.
Would you ever be in favor of increasing property taxes?
Yes.
Do you believe that, as a representative of the public, your vote should reflect how your constituents would vote or are they electing you to use your own judgment?
They are electing me to use my best judgment.
What do you think are the keys to your success?
Vision, creativity and independence.
What was the last book you read?
“Remix Strategy: The Three Laws of Business Combinations,” by Benjamin Gomes-Casseres.
If you got to choose a last meal, what would it be?
Surf and turf, loaded baked potato, creamed spinach, sauteed onions and a glass of Malbec.
What talent or skill do you wish you had?
I wish I could sing.
What activities do you enjoy outside of work?
Listening to live music, going to live sporting events, golfing, boating, having conversations with family.
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