Kesha Hodge Washington has been selected as the new vice mayor of Phoenix, marking a leadership change in the city’s government. She was chosen by her fellow Phoenix City Council members on January 7, 2026, after serving as the representative for District 8 since April 2023. Her selection reflects the council’s confidence in her experience and leadership.
Hodge Washington made history when she was sworn in as a councilmember for District 8 on April 17, 2023, becoming the first African-American woman elected to the Phoenix City Council. In her new role as vice mayor, she will work closely with Mayor Kate Gallego and the rest of the council to help guide policy discussions and assist in setting the city’s agenda.
During her time on the council, Hodge Washington has served on several key committees, including the Economic Development and Housing Subcommittee and the Transportation, Infrastructure and Planning Subcommittee. Her work has focused on addressing homelessness, expanding access to affordable and attainable housing, and supporting economic development initiatives throughout Phoenix.
Hodge Washington brings a long history of community service and public leadership to the role. She moved to Arizona from the U.S. Virgin Islands in 1999 and has been active in civic and legal work for many years. She is a first-generation college graduate who earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of the Virgin Islands and later received her law degree from Arizona State University. After law school, she clerked for the Arizona Court of Appeals and worked as an assistant attorney general, where she focused on cases involving the protection of children before transitioning into private legal practice.
In addition to her government work, Hodge Washington has remained deeply involved in the community. She helps raise scholarship funds for students, mentors young women, and provides pro bono legal services. She is also active in professional and civic organizations, including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the American Bar Association.
As vice mayor, Hodge Washington will take on expanded responsibilities while working alongside the mayor and city council to address Phoenix’s ongoing challenges and policy priorities. Her appointment reflects recognition of her leadership within the city and her continued commitment to public service.
Source: KTAR
