Tiffany Henyard, the former Democratic mayor of Dolton, Illinois, and former supervisor of nearby Thornton Township, is attempting to restart her political career in a new state and under a new party affiliation. Henyard announced in a March 11 Facebook video that she had moved to Fulton County, Georgia, and criticized local officials, claiming residents were “looking for new leadership.” She teased a “big announcement” days later, which confirmed her candidacy for the District 5 Fulton County commission seat as a Republican.

Election records show Henyard qualified to run on March 5 and lists her occupation as “business owner.” The Fulton County seat she seeks is currently held by Democrat Marvin Arrington Jr., who is running for chair of the Board of Commissioners. Four other candidates, all Democrats, also qualified to run for the same seat during that week. The Georgia primary election is scheduled for May 19.

In her Facebook video, Henyard emphasized the need for change and reaching across party lines. “You can’t expect change without making a change,” she said, adding that residents are “tired” and “looking for new leadership.” She also claimed her move and candidacy were motivated by a responsibility “to reach across the aisle, let alone walk across the aisle.”

Henyard’s tenure in Dolton was marred by controversy. Her administration faced budget cuts, allegations of lavish spending, and other misconduct. An FBI investigation scrutinized her time as mayor, and public meetings occasionally erupted into confrontations. In the February 2025 Democratic mayoral primary, Henyard lost decisively, receiving only 536 votes out of 4,446 cast.

Earlier this month, a judge ordered Henyard to pay a former landlord $10,000 in connection with a rental dispute in Illinois. She failed to appear in court, citing that she was out of state, and denies wrongdoing. Her attorney confirmed that she plans to address the case.

The Fulton County Republican Party hasn't respond her campaign announcement.