Omar Bradley (politician) facts for kids

Omar Bradley was born on May 9, 1958. He is an American politician. He served as the mayor of Compton, California, from 1993 to 2001. Before becoming mayor, he was a teacher.

Early Life and Public Service

Omar Bradley grew up in Compton, California. He lived in the area as an adult. He worked as a high school teacher before he decided to enter politics.

Becoming a City Council Member

In 1991, Omar Bradley ran for a spot on the Compton City Council. He won the election against Pedro Pallan. Bradley became the City Councilman for the 1st District of Compton. After winning, he wanted to work with everyone. He said his goal was to help the Latino community. He wanted to make sure they received good city services.

Election as Mayor

Just two years later, in 1993, Bradley ran for mayor. He was running against Councilwoman Patricia A. Moore. It was a very close election. Bradley won by only 349 votes. He replaced the previous mayor, Walter R. Tucker III.

First Actions as Mayor

When Bradley became mayor, he caused some discussion. During his campaign, he had promised to appoint a Latino person to the City Council. This person would take his old council seat. Many people thought he would choose Pedro Pallan, who had run against him before. However, on the night of the appointment, Bradley and two other council members chose Ronald Green. Green was an African American and new to politics.

Working with the Community

Later that year, Bradley made some comments about music videos. These comments upset members of the Jewish community. A musician named Eazy-E wanted to film a music video in Compton. Bradley spoke to him during a council meeting. He later apologized for his remarks. On October 13, 1993, he held a press conference with Eazy-E. He announced his approval for the music video and said sorry for what he had said earlier.

End of Mayoral Term

In 2001, Omar Bradley ran for re-election for a third term. He lost the election by a small number of votes. Eric J. Perrodin, who was new to politics, won the election instead.

2013 Mayoral Campaign

Omar Bradley ran for mayor of Compton again in 2013. He did well in the first election on April 16, 2013. He came in second place with 26.5% of the votes. Aja Brown received 27.8% of the votes. The mayor at the time, Eric J. Perrodin, came in third.

In the final election on June 4, 2013, Bradley ran against Aja Brown. Brown won the election with 64% of the votes. Bradley received 36%.