Awal was among the councilors who supported restoring annual funding for Duluth’s mental-health crisis response team after Mayor Roger Reinert proposed eliminating the city’s share of the program’s budget.
Reinert enters 2026 with two failed endorsements hanging around his neck, a lost council majority, a newly emboldened progressive bloc, a budget minefield, and a downtown recovery that needs more than slogans and cheerleading.
4th District Duluth City Councilor Swenson is a mom and highly-respected community leader, and knows firsthand how essential it is for families to have safe, reliable childcare options. She understands that this is a small but important step in addressing a much larger challenge.
“By supporting our first responders, prioritizing economic development, and creating a welcoming environment for both residents and businesses, we can ensure Duluth thrives as a vibrant, inclusive, and safe community.” -- Tara Swenson