Rudy McCollum facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Rudy McCollum
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| 77th Mayor of Richmond | |
| In office September 11, 2001 – January 1, 2005 |
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| Preceded by | Tim Kaine |
| Succeeded by | Douglas Wilder |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Rudolph Clyde McCollum Jr.
November 28, 1955 Richmond, Virginia, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Education |
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| Occupation |
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Rudolph Clyde McCollum Jr. was born on November 28, 1955. He is an American lawyer and politician. He served as the mayor of Richmond, Virginia from 2001 to 2005.
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Early Life and Education
Rudolph McCollum Jr. grew up in Richmond, Virginia. He went to Huguenot High School and finished in 1973.
After high school, he attended Howard University. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics in 1978. Later, he studied law at the University of Maryland School of Law. He became a lawyer in 1991.
Political Career in Richmond
McCollum started his political journey in 1996. He was elected to the Richmond City Council. This council helps run the city. He represented the Fifth District, which is a central part of Richmond.
He served as the Vice Mayor for three years. The Vice Mayor helps the Mayor and leads council meetings sometimes. In late 2001, it was announced he would become the new Mayor. He took over from Tim Kaine, who became the Lieutenant Governor of Virginia.
Becoming Mayor of Richmond
Rudolph McCollum Jr. became the 77th Mayor of Richmond on September 11, 2001. This was a very important day in American history.
At that time, the city council chose the mayor. But in 2004, voters decided to change this system. They approved a new way of choosing the mayor. From then on, the mayor would be elected by popular vote. This means citizens would vote directly for their mayor. This system is called "mayor-at-large." McCollum was the last mayor chosen by the city council.
Running for Re-election
McCollum decided to run for mayor again. However, he lost the election. He ran against L. Douglas Wilder, a former Governor. Wilder won by a large number of votes.
Even though he lost, many people still liked McCollum. His loss was likely due to not campaigning much. Also, Wilder was a very well-known politician.
After Being Mayor
Since leaving office, McCollum has had several different jobs. In 2006, he started his own law firm. He helps people with legal issues like bankruptcy and divorce.
He also served on the Virginia Parole Board until 2011. This board decides if people in prison can be released early. When asked about returning to politics, he said his main focus was his family. He wants to help his children prepare for their future.
