7-18-25: Lawana Expands On Jennings Payout

Tune in here to this ​Friday's edition of Breaking With Brett Jensen!

Breaking, Brett Jensen kicks off the show by discussing candidate filings and the buzz at the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections on the final day for municipal and school board hopefuls to declare their intentions. Brett highlights the packed scene at the elections office, noting a mix of familiar names and complete newcomers entering local races in Charlotte, Pineville, and Huntersville.

Later, Jensen sits down with Charlotte City Council member LaWana Mayfield to discuss the fallout surrounding the Johnny Jennings payout and the broader dysfunction she sees within city leadership. Mayfield, who filed for re-election to an at-large seat, shares candid thoughts on what she believes is a troubling shift from collective public service to individual political ambition. She opens up about her absence from the controversial closed session vote—explaining it was due to illness—and affirms she would have voted “no.” Mayfield also expresses concern over transparency, media leaks, and a lack of communication among council members.

Jensen is also joined by Republican mayoral candidate Terry Donovan to discuss her decision to enter the race and the challenges facing Charlotte. Donovan, who is backed by the Mecklenburg GOP, is the first serious Republican to run for mayor in years. She tells Jensen that her campaign is motivated by rising crime, a lack of public safety, and what she refers to as “a city that’s becoming unrecognizable.” Citing incidents of mass shootings and assaults on police officers, Donovan emphasizes that safety must be Charlotte’s top priority. She also expresses frustration with the backroom dealings surrounding the Johnny Jennings payout and calls for complete transparency from city leadership.

Listen here for all of this and more on Breaking With Brett Jensen.

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