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James J. H. Atkins has long been a champion for Kentucky State University and now the 1972 graduate will advocate for the citizens of Danville as the self-proclaimed, “The People’s Mayor.” Atkins’ win during the midterm elections on Nov. 8, made him the first elected African American mayor of the city.

In an interview with Lex 18, Mayor-elect Atkins said he plans to continue focusing on the community.

“I have two ears and so I have an opportunity to listen to people and take their thoughts and digest them and when I do vote, the vote's based on what I think the majority of the citizens have directed me how to vote.”