In Moscow, Idaho, there is a new mayor in town. Nearly 70% of voters marked Hailey Lewis on their ballots in the November election.
Lewis was born and raised in Moscow. She graduated from the University of Idaho in 2016, where she studied international studies and Spanish.
“I really love this town, and I think it’s a really cool opportunity for public service,” she said.
Lewis’ vision of Moscow will aim to have sustainable growth and a more connected community.
“I am interested in bringing a new generation's perspective, and to change that gap between our student population and people who may feel fondness for Moscow but don't know how to make space for, or stay here or with people who have made the decision to retire here or raise a family here,” said Lewis.
By the end of her term, Lewis said she hopes to leave a lasting legacy on the community.
“I am hopeful after four years, maybe everyone in town will have learned one thing about how a city works that they wouldn’t have otherwise,” Lewis said.
Lewis, a 32-year-old resident, served on city council for four years.
Brian Vega is a Voces intern working in NWPB’s newsroom. Voces Internship of Idaho is an equity-driven internship program that strives to bring in new and needed voices to Idaho's news landscape by opening doors for young Latino Idahoans to get professional paid experience to kick-start their careers.