Maplewood voters will decide on Nov. 3 whether to re‑elect Mayor Marylee Abrams or replace her with City Council Member Chonburi Lee, who would become the city’s first Hmong mayor. The race has drawn attention for its stark fundraising disparity and contrasting visions for the community.
Candidate backgrounds and campaign finances
Mayor Abrams, first elected in 2019, has raised roughly $3,400 for her re‑election effort, according to campaign finance filings. She declined an interview for this story. Abrams previously served four years on the Maplewood City Council before becoming mayor. During her tenure she expanded fire and emergency medical services, opposed the Purple Line rapid‑transit plan, and promoted economic development around Maplewood Mall and St. John’s Hospital.
Councilmember Chonburi Lee entered the race with a much larger war chest, reporting $63,836 in contributions. Lee led the August primary with 44 % of the vote, while Abrams earned 31 % and former mayor Diana Longrie captured 25 % before being eliminated.
Key issues and campaign messages
Lee argues that Maplewood lacks sufficient services and recreation options for youth and seniors. He says the city needs a long‑range plan that looks ten to twenty years ahead. “I think what we really need to do is … cater to the changing dynamics of our community,” Lee said.
Abrams emphasizes public safety and support for first‑responders. Her campaign website states, “I am a huge supporter of our public safety personnel and am committed to advocating at the legislature to build a joint police and fire training center in Maplewood. We must protect those who serve and protect us!”
Election logistics
Polling places in Maplewood close at 8 p.m. on Election Day. Results will be posted online approximately every ten minutes throughout the evening.
What this race means for Maplewood
The contest reflects broader demographic shifts in the suburb, where nearly half of residents identify as people of color. Both candidates stress the importance of community cohesion and responsive government, but they differ on how best to allocate resources for public safety, youth programs, and senior services.
Residents who wish to learn more about the candidates’ platforms can visit the city’s official election website or attend upcoming candidate forums scheduled by local civic groups.
Original reporting: Sahan Journal — read the source article.
