Samba Baldeh

Madison’s Common Council elected two black alders – Ald. Samba Baldeh and Ald. Sheri Carter – to serve as the new leadership team last night. This is the first time in Madison’s history that two African-American alders have held the positions of president and vice president at the same time.

Alder Sheri Carter [right] celebrates her election victory with Alder Barbara McKinney last year.

Baldeh, of District 17, was elected president and Carter, of District 14, was elected vice president. The votes were unanimous. Baldeh’s District 17 is located on Madison’s east side while Carter’s District 14 is on Madison’s south side. Both alders will serve a one-year term.

The Dane County Board also picked its leaders last night. After new members were sworn in, Sharon Corrigan was selected by supervisors to once again serve as Board Chair.