Atlanta Councilman and Former Mayor Trade Barbs In Heated City Race

“We didn’t question her ability to serve when her daughter had numerous legal issues that called for Mayor Franklin to arguably misuse her position to get a desired outcome. We didn’t question her ability to serve when her son’s business left the city and the state owing millions of dollars… and this is who my opponent has as his most trusted and senior advisor,” said Willis.

He suggested Franklin was having it both ways in going after him while calling on public servants to set a higher standard of professional conduct.

“It seems hypocritical for [Franklin] to stoop so low as to savagely attack me and then endorse my opponent given the standard [she] raised.”

In an emailed response, Franklin said Willis’ comments were “baseless and dishonest.”

“His vicious verbal attack on me and my family indicate he is not fit for public office… he is a desperate man willing to say and do anything to win an election,” said Franklin, who was mayor from 2002-2010.

She added: “If this is an effort to silence my voice, I am reminded of when once upon a time women were to be seen and not heard.”

Willis, who was disbarred for professional misconduct earlier this month, said he had “publicly acknowledged” his mistakes and has since made “all parties whole.” He said he now wants to be judged by his three terms as city councilman. He also urged voters to investigate his opponent’s background, particularly Dickens’ past bankruptcy and his “unlawful use of Georgia Tech government property.”

“Moving Atlanta forward is far more important than the petty mudslinging attacks that my opponent and his supporters have stooped to,” said Willis.

Franklin insists none of her comments have been personal.

“I have stated the facts about his disbarment for stealing a client’s money and his repeated unethical behavior. This isn’t my opinion it is fact. As a longtime Atlantan, a woman of integrity and a former mayor I have chosen to support and endorse Andre Dickens, a candidate who values a strong ethical commitment to good government.”

Dickens campaign spokesman Lalohni Campbell called Willis’ comments “sad and desperate.” She said Dickens has been open about the bankruptcy of his family furniture business and has never misused Georgia Tech property. She called the latter allegation “a complete lie.”