The Politics of Achievement (Winter 2024-2025)

PUBLIC SERVICE

wrote an op-ed in The Wall Street Journal announcing his switch from the Democratic Party to the Repub- lican party. There, he outlined his reasons and emphasized that his focus on law enforcement and fiscal conservatism has remained consistent through his public service. Though the mayor's position in Dallas is technically nonpartisan Johnson joins the mayor of Fort Worth as the only two Republicans to lead a major Texas city. Looking to the future, Johnson’s vision for Dallas is bold yet grounded: “My Administration has made Dallas safer, stronger, and more prosperous,” he declares. His goal is to transform Dallas into a city where economic opportunity is within reach for all. “These strategic investments, combined with our commitment to economic growth and competitive- ness, ensure Dallas continues to thrive as a city of genuine opportunity for years to come,” he says confidently. Through it all, Johnson’s commit- ment to service remains unwavering. “My Administration has a unique focus on government efficiency, fiscal responsibility, transparency, ethics reform, and data-driven decision-mak- ing,” he emphasizes. He hopes his legacy will be remembered as one that championed public safety, economic prosperity, and opportunities for all Dallas residents. As Brother Mayor Eric L. Johnson continues to lead Dallas into a prom- ising future, his vision, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the city’s well-being serve as an inspiring blue- print for leaders everywhere. ♦

Goldman Sachs breaks ground on an 800,000 sq.ft. Dallas Campus to house more than 5000 em- ployees. From left: Hunt Consolidated Inc. Executive Chairman Ray L. Hunt, Hunt Realty Invest- ments CEO Chris Kleinert, Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson, Goldman Sachs President and COO John Waldron, Hillwood Chairman Ross Perot, Jr.

Administration supports local schools is through the Mayor’s Back to School Fair,” he explains. “Last year, the fair served over 10,000 students and 30,000 people total.” His Summer of Safety campaign further demonstrates his commitment to keeping young people safe and engaged. FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY AND TRANSPARENCY Johnson’s commitment to fiscal responsibility is clear. “In 2023, I voted against the city budget because it was the largest in the city’s history and did not sufficiently relieve the tax burden on Dallas residents,” he reveals. His administration’s transpar- ency efforts include the historic ethics reform package passed unanimously by the Dallas City Council and the establishment of the Office of Inspec- tor General. “Ethics reform has been a unique component of my Administra- tion,” he states. In the face of natural disasters,

Johnson has demonstrated decisive leadership. “During the 2021 winter storm, I took decisive action to keep Dallas residents safe and warm,” he recalls. Investments in flood protec- tion, storm drainage, and enhanced winter storm preparedness underscore his proactive approach. “Today, Dallas takes a more proactive approach to disaster preparedness, ensuring we are ready for whatever comes next,” Johnson assures.

UNPRECEDENTED MANDATE

Johnson’s historic 98.7% re-elec- tion victory in 2023—the highest vote percentage ever received by a Dallas mayor—was a resounding endorsement of his leadership. “I ran for re-election unopposed in 2023 because the people of Dallas overwhelmingly believe in my vision for the city and see the results we’ve delivered,” he reflects. In September 2023, Mayor Johnson

28 THE JOURNAL ♦ WINTER 2024-2025

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