Reflections on a Historic Campaign: What We Learned From the Race for Ward 1 Alderman
Working on the Campaign to Elect Sandra “Sunshine Lady” Hodges for Ward 1 Alderwoman has been a powerful, eye-opening experience. Not just because of the hard work our team and supporters put in — but because this campaign became part of Holly Springs history in ways none of us expected.
First and foremost — this was a historic election. The general election resulted in an exact tie, something that had never happened before in Holly Springs. There has never been a coin toss used to decide an election in this city until now. That alone speaks to the intensity of this race and the importance of every single vote.
But that’s not the only history made. Sandra also became the first Rust College student to ever run for public office in Holly Springs. As a current business management major at this beloved HBCU, she balanced school, service, and leadership — something that should have been celebrated far more by those who claim to champion progress and empowerment in this city.
Unfortunately, we saw another side of local politics between the primary and the general election. In the primary, Sandra achieved a blowout victory — 171 votes to 76 — a clear mandate from Ward 1 residents. But after that, the behavior from certain individuals in the community shifted dramatically. What followed between the primary and general election — and even after the coin toss — was marked by aggression, backbiting, and two-faced behavior from people who publicly claimed to stand for faith, fairness, and community, yet privately sought to divide, control, and influence for personal reasons.
Let’s be real: many of those who rallied behind Sandra’s opponent weren’t doing so because of qualifications or experience. They liked how he looked, how he talked, what school he went to, who his family is, and the fact that he was young. But youth alone does not equate to leadership — especially when that youth comes without a history of service or a proven commitment to this community.
Sandra’s record speaks for itself. She has spent years feeding the elderly, supporting youth and families in need, and leading natural disaster relief efforts as a dedicated member of the Red Cross Board. This wasn’t about a photo op or a speech during election season — this has been her consistent, year-round service to Holly Springs.
And let’s also be clear about this election process: it was a fair process. The general election resulted in a tie, so we followed the legal, transparent method of a public coin toss. God’s hand was on it — and Sandra won. The negativity that followed was uncalled for, and frankly, voters are tired. They’ve already been asked to show up to the polls three times this cycle. The process is complete, and now it’s time to move forward.
What I’ve taken from this experience is this: the same people who said they “love Holly Springs” need to show that love beyond the ballot box. Too many came out with energy during the election but are now nowhere to be found when it’s time to serve. Sandra will continue doing what she’s always done — showing up for this community. And we will be watching to see who else does the same.
At the end of the day, leadership is not about who looks the part or who speaks the best. It’s about heart, consistency, service, and putting the people first. Sandra “Sunshine Lady” Hodges embodies all of that and more.
As this new chapter begins, I invite Holly Springs to come together — not for appearances, not for influence, but for true progress. The work continues.
- Paulette Nicole
Campaign Consultant, Advocate, Spokesperson, Photographer, Videographer, & Graphic Designer
Campaign to Elect Sandra “Sunshine Lady” Hodges
