Mayor Steve “Thunder” Tumlin Announces Re-election Bid for Marietta’s Top Job

Mayor Steve “Thunder” Tumlin is officially running for a fifth term as mayor of Marietta, announcing his decision ahead of the November 4 election.

At 78 years old, Tumlin says his decision didn’t come lightly. After deep reflection, and encouragement from longtime colleagues and community members, the Marietta native says he’s ready to continue leading the city he’s called home all his life.

“I’ve had a lot of good friends that I respect put a lot of guilt on me,” said Tumlin. He also cited the upcoming departure of three veteran councilmembers — Andy Morris, Grif Chalfant, and Johnny Walker — as a key factor in his decision to run again.

Tumlin’s roots in public service span more than five decades. He’s served as a community volunteer, on the Marietta Board of Education, in the Georgia House of Representatives, and as chairman of the Cobb Legislative Delegation. His proudest achievement as mayor, he said, was leading the city’s effort to revitalize the Franklin Gateway corridor. In 2013, the city approved a $68 million bond to redevelop the once-blighted area. “It just hadn’t been done before,” he said. “Getting Atlanta United here was amazing, and we still have the properties where IKEA still hasn’t said yes on. The potential for further growth is still there.”

Tumlin said his family, particularly his six grandchildren (five of whom are currently enrolled in Marietta City Schools), also played a significant role in his decision. “Somebody might not vote for me because of my age, but I’ve got the advantage of knowing four generations that are still around,” Tumlin said. “So I’m able to see the city through my grandchildren’s eyes.”

Two candidates had announced their campaigns to unseat Tumlin; however, in a major shift, one has dropped out. Sully Diaz, a 26-year-old community organizer who launched a campaign focused on affordable housing and economic justice, has officially withdrawn from the mayor’s race. Diaz endorsed fellow candidate Sam Foster, a 24-year-old systems engineer and active civic participant, for mayor.

Instead, Diaz will now run for the Ward 5 City Council seat, currently held by Carlyle Kent, who is seeking re-election. Diaz said, “This decision reflects my belief that by working together with fellow candidate Sam Foster… we can unite our shared vision and bring stronger, more effective leadership to Marietta.”

Foster says he is running on a platform focused on transit investment, safer streets, and affordable housing.

Tumlin said he respects the passion of the younger candidates but he is prepared to run on his record. “This job is more than a title — it’s about managing growth responsibly and making sure Marietta continues to be a place where families can thrive.”

Key Election Dates

• Candidate Qualifying: August 18–20
• Early Voting Begins: October 14
• Election Day: November 4

Whether Marietta chooses continuity or change, the November election promises to shape the city’s future for years to come.