Janet Cowell

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Janet Cowell is from Memphis, Tennessee. She has a bachelor's degree from the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from the Wharton School of Business. She has lived in Raleigh since 1997.

Janet Cowell | Raleighnc.gov

Janet previously served as North Carolina State Treasurer, where she managed the state pension fund. She has also worked as a lobbyist and a consultant.

Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell discusses federal funding, economic ...

Janet is currently the mayor of Raleigh. Before serving as mayor, she served on the Raleigh City Council, in the North Carolina Senate, and as North Carolina State Treasurer.

As State Treasurer, ensured the AAA bond rating for North Carolina and Raleigh through diligent oversight of taxes, spending, and debt.

Economy

Plans to address housing affordability by diversifying housing options throughout the city.

Plans to collaborate with the City Council and Wake County to improve programs aimed at preserving the tree canopy and open spaces.

Plans to collaborate with Wake County to provide sufficient emergency shelter beds for the unhoused and with nonprofits to redirect individuals with mental health issues from hospitals to appropriate services.

Public Services

Supports collaboration with nonprofits to build affordable housing for low-income families.

Believes the city should improve processes to rehabilitate existing housing to ensure it is habitable and safe.

Housing & Urban Development

Supports investing in the police department and offering competitive pay to officers.

Supports the Raleigh CARES crisis response team, which provides emergency assistance.

Public Safety

Supports investing in infrastructure, including water, sewer, and public transportation, to reduce traffic congestion.

Transportation & Infrastructure

As of January 2, 2026, Janet Cowell’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Education

Ashleigh Heath Armstrong

Ashleigh Heath Armstrong has lived in Wake County since 2004.

Who's Running: Raleigh City Council

Ashleigh Heath Armstrong does not appear to have a campaign website or public social media presence. She is unaffiliated and a Wake County resident since at least 2004.

As of January 2, 2026, Ashleigh Heath Armstrong’s website did not contain information on this issue.

- The mayor leads the executive branch of local government, presiding over city council meetings, making sure city departments run smoothly, and providing services to citizens. 
- The mayor attends and runs City Council meetings, serving as an important leader for how local laws get set. These laws affect local services, such as Police, City Planning, Parks & Recreation, and Transportation.  
- The Mayor in some circumstances may vote to break a tie in council meetings. They do not have veto power.