Lashunda Scales crushes well-known challenger to retain Jefferson County Commission seat

Jefferson County Commissioner Lashunda Scales has secured a third term on the dais, delivering a decisive victory over Birmingham City Councilman Clinton Woods in a high-profile race for District 1.

A Decisive Mandate

District 1, a vast territory encompassing roughly half of Birmingham along with the communities of Forestdale, Midfield, and Fairfield, spoke clearly on Tuesday. According to unofficial results, Scales garnered 11,788 votes—a commanding 61% of the total—compared to Woods' 7,444 votes, or 38.7%.

"The district won tonight because the truth prevailed," Scales remarked to her supporters late Tuesday night. "The needs of the people prevailed."

Staying the Course

Reflecting on a campaign characterized by its share of friction, Scales credited her win to maintaining a disciplined focus on her platform rather than engaging in negative political crossfire. "The mere fact that we were able to stay on message, even though they were throwing out these fiery darts, still we were talking about what the people wanted to hear," she said.

Scales, who has served on the county commission since 2018, follows in a tradition of public service that includes three terms on the Birmingham City Council and deep family roots in local grassroots activism through her grandmother.

Looking Ahead

Following the results, Woods—who was appointed to the Birmingham City Council in 2018 to fill the seat vacated by Scales—offered his congratulations to the incumbent. Speaking to 205focus.com, he acknowledged the strength of her campaign.

"I want to tip my cap to Commissioner Scales," Woods stated. "She did a good job of getting her supporters out and she has clear support from the community to continue her leadership." Despite the outcome, Woods expressed pride in his campaign team and his effort to present a fresh vision to the district. With the election decided, Woods will retain his current seat on the Birmingham City Council.